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Oldest House in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary

Explore Birmingham's oldest home, a 19th-century commissary offering a glimpse into early settlers and the region's industrial heritage, a landmark of resilience.

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Discover Birmingham's oldest home, a preserved 19th-century commissary offering a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the region's industrial heritage. Built between 1820 and 1830, it later served as a vital supply hub for the Irondale Furnace.

A brief summary to Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary

  • 4180 Glenbrook Dr, Birmingham, Alabama, 35213, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the golden hour for stunning photographs of the house against the backdrop of the setting sun.
  • Research the history of the Irondale Furnace to gain a deeper appreciation of the site's historical context and its role in the Civil War.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Irondale Furnace Ruins to gain a deeper understanding of the area's industrial past and the house's historical context.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from downtown Birmingham, head east on I-20 E/I-59 N. Take exit 130B for US-231 N toward Montgomery. Continue on US-231 N for approximately 6 miles. Take the exit toward Irondale. Continue until you reach Glenbrook Dr and turn right. The Oldest House is at 4180 Glenbrook Dr. Limited street parking is available. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Oldest House by public transportation, use the MAX bus service. From the Central Station in downtown Birmingham, transfer to Route 1 (Birmingham - Irondale). Get off at the Glenbrook Dr stop. Walk a short distance down Glenbrook Dr to 4180 Glenbrook Dr. The bus fare is $1.50 per ride.

  • Ride-Sharing

    Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are readily available in Birmingham. A ride from downtown Birmingham to 4180 Glenbrook Dr typically costs between $10 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.

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Discover more about Oldest house in Shades Valley/Irondale Furnace Commissary

The Oldest House in Shades Valley, also known as the Irondale Furnace Commissary, is a significant historical landmark located on Glenbrook Drive in Birmingham, Alabama. This unassuming structure offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the region's early settlers and its burgeoning industrial past. Constructed between 1820 and 1830, the original building was a simple, one-and-a-half-story log cabin, reflecting the modest beginnings of the area. In 1863, Wallace S. McElwain, the owner of the nearby Cahaba Iron Works (also known as the Irondale Furnace), purchased it from William Cummings. McElwain transformed the residence into a commissary, or company store, to serve the needs of the furnace workers and their families. Before the establishment of the commissary, settlers had to endure a long and arduous journey over Red Mountain to Elyton (now part of Birmingham) to obtain essential supplies. The commissary became a vital lifeline for the community, providing much-needed provisions and goods. The Cahaba Iron Works played a crucial role in the Confederacy during the Civil War, producing iron for cannons and other war materials. The commissary, therefore, became an even more critical hub, supporting the war effort and the families who depended on the ironworks for their livelihoods. The house stands as a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of the community during a time of great upheaval. In March 1865, Union General Wilson's Raiders targeted the Irondale Furnace, recognizing its importance to the Confederate cause. While the furnace was destroyed, the commissary was spared. After the Civil War, the furnace was rebuilt, and the commissary continued to serve the community. The house remained in the Eastis family for over eighty years, becoming a cherished part of their family history. In 1951, Edward Beaumont purchased the house, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, the Oldest House in Shades Valley stands as a powerful symbol of the early settlers and industrial workers who shaped the region.

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