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Helen Keller Birthplace: Ivy Green

Explore the birthplace of Helen Keller, the iconic advocate and author, at Ivy Green in Tuscumbia, Alabama. A historic landmark and inspiring museum.

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Visit Ivy Green, the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller in Tuscumbia, Alabama. Explore the historic house, birthplace cottage, and the iconic well pump where Anne Sullivan helped Keller make her communication breakthrough. A museum on the grounds showcases Keller's life and achievements.

A brief summary to Helen Keller Birthplace

Local tips

  • Visit during the annual Helen Keller Festival in late June for a vibrant celebration of her life and achievements.
  • See a performance of 'The Miracle Worker' during the summer for an emotional portrayal of Helen Keller's early life.
  • Take the guided tour to learn about the history of the home and the Keller family.
  • Explore the gardens to see the plants that Helen Keller wrote about in her books.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Ivy Green is located in a residential area of Tuscumbia, a short walk from downtown. From the Tuscumbia City Hall, head north on Main Street, then turn left onto North Commons Street. Ivy Green will be on your right, at 300 North Commons Street. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. Sidewalks are available, but be mindful of traffic. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments (NACOLG) offers a Dial-a-Ride service in Tuscumbia and surrounding areas. To use this service, you must schedule a ride in advance by calling (256) 314-0047 or toll-free at (833) 314-0047. Fares vary depending on the distance. Contact NACOLG for specific fare information and scheduling.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Tuscumbia. From the Muscle Shoals Regional Airport, a taxi or Uber ride to Ivy Green will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around $16-$25 for an UberX ride, but prices may vary depending on demand and time of day. Confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your trip.

  • Driving

    If driving to Ivy Green, use the address 300 N Commons St W, Tuscumbia, AL 35674. From Highway 43, turn onto East 2nd Street, then turn left onto North Commons Street. Ivy Green will be on your left. Limited free parking is available on-site. Be aware that parking may be restricted during special events. There are no tolls on the direct route to Ivy Green.

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Discover more about Helen Keller Birthplace

Ivy Green, located in Tuscumbia, Alabama, is the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller, the world-renowned author, activist, and lecturer who overcame deaf-blindness. Born on June 27, 1880, Helen Keller lived at Ivy Green until she was a young woman. The property, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a glimpse into her early life and the extraordinary events that shaped her journey. The main house, built in 1820 by Keller's grandfather, David Keller, is a classic example of Southern architecture. The house museum features original furnishings and artifacts from the Keller family, providing a sense of the home's history and atmosphere. The birthplace cottage, a smaller structure near the main house, was initially a plantation office and later served as the bridal suite for Keller's parents. Between the main house and the cottage is the well pump, the site of the transformative moment when Keller, with the help of her teacher Anne Sullivan, connected words with objects. Sullivan spelled "w-a-t-e-r" into Keller's hand as water flowed over it, leading to Keller's understanding of language and opening up a world of communication. Visitors can see the well pump and learn about this pivotal event. In addition to the house and grounds, Ivy Green features a museum with exhibits about Keller's life, work, and legacy. The museum displays personal mementos, books, and gifts Keller received during her travels and lectures around the world. The meticulously kept gardens reflect the plants that Helen Keller wrote about, including roses, honeysuckle and ivy. Each summer, the play "The Miracle Worker" is performed on the grounds, depicting Keller and Sullivan's early struggles and triumphs. The Helen Keller Festival takes place annually in Tuscumbia, celebrating Keller's life and achievements with various events, including a parade, arts and crafts, and stage entertainment.

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