Sturdivant Hall: Selma's Antebellum Masterpiece
Step back in time at Sturdivant Hall Museum in Selma, Alabama, and explore the grandeur and history of this meticulously preserved antebellum mansion.
Sturdivant Hall, a magnificent Greek Revival mansion in Selma, Alabama, offers a captivating glimpse into the antebellum South. Completed in 1856, the house, also known as the Watts-Parkman-Gillman House, was designed by Thomas Helm Lee for Colonel Edward T. Watts, a wealthy planter. The mansion quickly became a symbol of Watts's wealth, featuring elaborate craftsmanship and imported materials. The construction cost approximately $69,900 at the time. The Watts family lived at Sturdivant Hall until 1864 when they sold it to John McGee Parkman, a local banker. Parkman's time at the hall was short and tragic; he died during an attempted escape from prison after facing financial difficulties. In 1870, Emile Gillman, a prominent Selma merchant, purchased the house. The Gillman family owned the house until 1957, when the City of Selma purchased it. A significant portion of the funds came from a bequest from Robert Daniel Sturdivant, stipulating that the mansion be used as a museum. Today, Sturdivant Hall Museum features period antique furnishings, porcelain and doll collections, and an impressive array of art. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion, learning about its history, architecture, and former residents. The formal gardens provide a peaceful setting for a stroll. Sturdivant Hall is also rumored to be haunted by the ghost of John Parkman. Sturdivant Hall is located within Selma's Old Town Historic District, which features over 1,200 historic structures dating back to the 1820s.
Local tips
- Check the museum's website or call ahead for information on special events, educational programs, and holiday celebrations.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the mansion, detached kitchen/gift shop, and formal gardens.
- Consider visiting other nearby attractions in Selma's Old Town Historic District, such as the Edmund Pettus Bridge and the National Voting Rights Museum.
A brief summary to Sturdivant Hall Museum
- 713 Mabry St, Selma, Alabama, 36701, US
- +1334-872-5626
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the Edmund Pettus Bridge and the National Voting Rights Museum, Sturdivant Hall is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head northeast on Broad Street, then turn right onto Mabry Street. The museum will be on your left. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from downtown Selma (e.g., the St. James Hotel or the Edmund Pettus Bridge area) to Sturdivant Hall is a short ride, typically costing between $8 and $12. Request a ride to 713 Mabry Street. The journey should take no more than 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 713 Mabry Street, Selma, AL 36701. Limited free parking is available on-site. From Broad Street, turn onto Mabry Street. The museum will be on your left. Parking is free.
Attractions Nearby to Sturdivant Hall Museum
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Old Town Historic District
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Tabernacle Baptist Church
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Vaughan Smitherman Museum
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Selma Interpretive Center of the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
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Brown Chapel AME Church
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Edmund Pettus Bridge
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Enslavement & Civil War Museum
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Bridge Crossing Jubilee
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Old Depot Museum
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Historic Riverfront Park
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Civil Rights Memorial Park
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National Voting Rights Museum and Institute
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New Live Oak Cemetery
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Lions Fair Park
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Old Cahawba Archaeological Park
Landmarks nearby to Sturdivant Hall Museum
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John Tyler Morgan House
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Mabry-Jones House
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Icehouse Historic District
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Temple Mishkan Israel
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The Coffee Shoppe
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Edmundite Missions
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Riverview Historic District
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Sleeping Prophet Edgar Cayce Memorial
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905 Gallery
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Organpi Farms Farmhouse
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Queen City Kale
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St. James Hotel Selma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
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Bridgetender's House
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Bloch Park
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Candy Lady