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The Dowe Houses: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Montgomery

Explore the legacy of the Dowe family and their historic homes, a reminder of 19th-century residential life in Montgomery, Alabama.

The Dowe Houses, located on Washington Avenue in Montgomery, Alabama, comprise three historic residences that stand as a reminder of a bygone era. Built by the Dowe family, Irish immigrants, these homes showcase architectural styles from the mid to late 19th century and offer a glimpse into the lives of a prominent Montgomery family.

A brief summary to The Dowe Houses

  • 334 Washington Ave, Montgomery, Alabama, 36104, US

Local tips

  • Take a stroll around the neighborhood to admire the diverse architectural styles of the surrounding historic buildings.
  • Check out other nearby historical sites, such as the Rosa Parks Museum and the Alabama State Capitol, to delve deeper into Montgomery's rich history.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Dowe Houses are located at 334 Washington Ave in downtown Montgomery. If you are near the Alabama State Capitol, head east on Washington Avenue. The Dowe Houses will be on your left, a few blocks from the Capitol. There is no fee to view the houses from the exterior.

  • Public Transport

    The M Transit provides bus service in Montgomery. Check The M's website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Several bus routes have stops near the intersection of Washington Avenue and South Hull Street, a short walk from the Dowe Houses. A single ride fare is $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Montgomery. A ride from downtown landmarks like the Rosa Parks Museum to the Dowe Houses typically costs between $8 and $12, depending on demand and traffic.

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Discover more about The Dowe Houses

The Dowe Houses consist of three distinct homes built by the Dowe family, who resided there for nearly 150 years. The main family residence at 334 Washington Avenue, dating back to 1863, was originally an Italianate-style raised cottage. In 1908, it was remodeled with a two-story columned portico in the Greek Revival style. Just west of the main residence, at 320 Washington Avenue, stands a Queen Anne-style house constructed in 1885 by Joanna Dowe after her husband's death. This home was lauded as an architectural marvel at the time of its construction. A third house, built around 1890 in the American Queen Anne style, faces Hull Street behind the main residence. The Dowe Houses were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 and are protected by a preservation easement held by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. While the interiors have been altered over time, the exteriors retain much of their original character, offering a tangible link to Montgomery's past. Although the houses may appear run-down, they represent a remarkable success story.

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