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Sannoner Historic District: A Step Back in Time

Explore Florence's past in the Sannoner Historic District, where stunning architecture and rich history come together on tree-lined streets.

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The Sannoner Historic District in Florence, Alabama, offers a glimpse into the city's 19th and early 20th-century history. Named for Ferdinand Sannoner, who surveyed Florence in 1818, the district features a collection of well-preserved homes showcasing various architectural styles.

A brief summary to Sannoner Historic District

  • N Seminary St, Florence, Alabama, 35630, US

Local tips

  • Take a leisurely walk to fully appreciate the architectural details of the historic homes.
  • Visit during the day to best enjoy the landscaping and historic plaques.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Wilson Park or the Florence-Lauderdale Public Library.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Sannoner Historic District is easily walkable from downtown Florence. From Wilson Park, head north on N Court Street or N Pine Street. The district begins just past Tuscaloosa Avenue and extends to the University of North Alabama campus. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the architecture and historic markers along the way. There are no specific costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Florence public transit system, Shoals Area Regional Transit System (STARTS), has limited routes in the immediate vicinity. Check the STARTS website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. If using public transport, expect a short walk from the nearest bus stop to fully explore the district. Single fares are typically around $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Florence. A short ride from downtown Florence to the Sannoner Historic District will likely cost between $8 and $12, depending on demand and distance.

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Discover more about Sannoner Historic District

The Sannoner Historic District, nestled between downtown Florence and the University of North Alabama, is a treasure trove of architectural styles and local history. Named after Ferdinand Sannoner, the Italian-born surveyor who laid out the city in 1818, the district showcases a blend of Federal, Greek Revival, Victorian, and early 20th-century designs. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976, with updates in 2018, the district represents three major phases of residential development in Florence. Strolling through the district, visitors can admire the six antebellum homes, more than any other historic district in Florence, that once belonged to wealthy planters, lawyers, and merchants. Courtview, a Greek Revival mansion built in 1855, stands as the centerpiece, dominating the district from its hilltop location at the end of Court Street. Other notable structures include Wakefield, believed to be the first brick house in Florence, dating back to 1825. The Medical Arts Building, constructed in 1826 in the Spanish Revival style, is also a significant landmark. As you explore, take note of the Gothic Revival Trinity Episcopal Church and the various Victorian houses built during Florence's late 19th and early 20th-century economic booms. The district also features houses in the bungalow, Neoclassical, and Tudor Revival styles, reflecting the diverse tastes and influences that shaped Florence's development.

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