Background

Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion: A Step Back in Time

Explore Tuscaloosa's rich history and architectural beauty at the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, a landmark of the pre-Civil War South.

4.6

The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is a beautifully preserved Italianate-style mansion dating back to the mid-19th century. Built for Senator Robert Jemison Jr., it showcases the wealth and innovation of the pre-Civil War South with features like running water and gas lighting. Today, it serves as a historic house museum, offering guided tours and a glimpse into Tuscaloosa's past.

A brief summary to Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion

Local tips

  • Check the Historic Tuscaloosa website for the most up-to-date tour schedule and any special events.
  • Allow at least 45 minutes for a guided tour to fully appreciate the mansion's history and architecture.
  • Guest parking is located on the right side of the mansion, accessible off 14th Street.
  • Consider combining your visit with a tour of other nearby historic sites, such as the Battle-Friedman House.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion is a short walk south of downtown Tuscaloosa. From the downtown area, head south on Greensboro Avenue. The mansion will be on your left, set back from the road. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes. There are sidewalks along Greensboro Avenue. Walking is free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tuscaloosa. Request a ride to the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion at 1305 Greensboro Avenue. A typical ride from downtown Tuscaloosa will cost approximately $8-$14, depending on the service and time of day.

  • Driving

    From downtown Tuscaloosa, take Greensboro Avenue south. The mansion is located at 1305 Greensboro Avenue. Guest parking is located on the right side of the mansion, accessible off 14th Street. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion

The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion, located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, offers a captivating journey into the past. Constructed between 1859 and 1862 for Robert Jemison Jr., a prominent state senator and businessman, the mansion stands as a testament to the aspirations and affluence of the pre-Civil War South. Jemison, wanting a home closer to Tuscaloosa, which had served as the state capital from 1826 to 1846, built the mansion for entertaining and housing visiting colleagues. The 26-room mansion was considered state-of-the-art for its time, boasting innovations such as running water, gas lighting, a hot water boiler, and even an indoor toilet—some of the earliest modern plumbing in the state. The house also features 14 different types of wood, most of which came from Jemison's own land holdings, showcasing the region's natural resources. The Italianate-style house was designed by Philadelphia architect John Stewart, who was also supervising the construction of Bryce Hospital. Jemison spared no expense, spending almost twice the amount it took for the state capitol building just in the frills. After remaining in the Jemison family for several generations, the mansion served as Tuscaloosa's public library from 1955 to 1979. Today, it operates as a historic house museum, offering guided tours that delve into the Jemison family history, the mansion's architecture, and Tuscaloosa's past. Some visitors have reported feeling cold spots and strange presences within the mansion, adding to its mystique. Legend has it that the spirits of Jemison's daughter, Priscilla Cherokee, and her husband, Andrew Coleman Hargrove, haunt the premises after Hargrove tragically took his own life in the mansion's library in 1895.

Popular Experiences near Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion

Popular Hotels near Jemison-Van De Graaff Mansion

Select Currency