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Owen Plantation House: A Step Back in Time

Explore Alabama's past at the Owen Plantation House, a beautifully preserved 19th-century landmark in Bessemer.

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The Owen Plantation House, built in 1838, stands as a testament to Alabama's rich history. This dog-trot style house, constructed by Thomas H. Owen, offers a glimpse into 19th-century plantation life and the stories of the family who lived there.

A brief summary to Owen Plantation House

Local tips

  • Schedule your visit during guided tour times for a deeper understanding of the plantation's history.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beautiful architecture and grounds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the house and grounds.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 1740 Eastern Valley Rd, Bessemer, AL 35022. From I-65 S, take Exit 261 for US-31 S towards Montgomery. Follow US-31 S, then take the ramp onto I-459 N towards Birmingham. Take Exit 1B onto US-11 N/US-280 W towards Bessemer. Continue on US-11 N, then turn right onto Eastern Valley Rd. The Owen Plantation House will be on your left. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Owen Plantation House via public transport, take a bus to the Birmingham Transit Center. From there, transfer to a bus that goes to Bessemer. Once in Bessemer, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach the plantation at 1740 Eastern Valley Rd. A short Uber or Lyft ride from downtown Bessemer to the Owen Plantation House typically costs around $10-$15.

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Discover more about Owen Plantation House

The Owen Plantation House, located in Bessemer, Alabama, offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back into the 19th century. Constructed in 1838 by Thomas Hennington Owen, the house began as a smaller two-room structure in 1833 before being expanded into a substantial two-story dog-trot style home. The house is built with hand-hewn logs and lumber from the surrounding 1,000-acre plantation. The Owen family played a significant role in the early development of Jefferson County. Thomas H. Owen was not only a planter but also a community leader, involved in establishing the Pleasant Hill Methodist Church and the Pleasant Hill Academy. During the Civil War, Owen contributed to the Confederate cause by establishing a forge to supply iron. In 1865, the plantation was raided by Union General James Wilson, resulting in the loss of valuables and damage to property. The family faced further tragedy during the war, losing three of their four children. Despite these hardships, the Owen family persevered, maintaining their home and land. In the 1970s, descendants of the Owen family donated the house to the West Jefferson County Historical Society. Today, the Owen Plantation House serves as a house museum, offering guided tours that delve into the history of the house, the Owen family, and 19th-century life in Alabama.

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