St. James Hotel Selma, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
St. James Hotel Selma: A Charming Southern Escape
Bridgetender's House: A Riverside Witness to History
Step back in time at the Bridgetender's House in Selma, AL – a historic cottage with stunning river views and a rich past.
The Bridgetender's House in Selma, Alabama, is a historic cottage built in 1884. It served as the home and workplace for the bridge tender who operated the city's first bridge across the Alabama River. Today, it stands as a preserved landmark offering a glimpse into Selma's past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Bridgetender's House
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
2, Lafayette Park, Selma, Alabama, 36703, US
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Getting There
Walking
From the Edmund Pettus Bridge, walk east along Water Avenue. The Bridgetender's House is located on the right, next to the St. James Hotel, overlooking the Alabama River. There are no costs associated with walking to the site.
Public Transport
Selma's public transportation options are limited. Check local schedules for any available bus routes that may pass near the Water Avenue area. From the nearest bus stop, walk towards the river and the Edmund Pettus Bridge. The Bridgetender's House will be on your right, next to the St. James Hotel. Bus fares typically range from $1.25 to $2.50 for a single ride.
Local tips
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Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views of the Alabama River and Edmund Pettus Bridge.
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Explore the Water Avenue Historic District, where the Bridgetender's House is located, to discover more of Selma's history.
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Check out the cornerstone of the original 1885 bridge, which can still be seen from the cottage's porch.
Discover more about Bridgetender's House
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Alabama River, the Bridgetender's House is a charming reminder of Selma's history. Built in 1884, this modest cottage was home to the bridgetender, who manually operated the swing bridge that once spanned the river. The bridgetender's job was a 24/7 responsibility, requiring them to open and close the bridge for river traffic.In 1940, the original swing bridge was replaced by the Edmund Pettus Bridge, an iconic landmark in its own right. The old bridge was demolished, but its cornerstone remains visible from the Bridgetender's House. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a contributing property to the Water Avenue Historic District.The Bridgetender's House has witnessed over a century of history, including the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery Voting Rights March. Today, the cottage offers stunning views of the river and the Edmund Pettus Bridge, providing visitors with a unique perspective on Selma's past and present.
A brief summary to Bridgetender's House
Use Bridgetender's House as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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Explore Selma, Alabama: A city steeped in history and resilience, offering a unique blend of cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, and Southern charm.
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