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Owen Plantation House: A Step Back in Time

Discover 19th-century Alabama at the Owen Plantation House, a beautifully preserved historical landmark in Bessemer.

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The Owen Plantation House in Bessemer, Alabama, built in 1838, offers a glimpse into 19th-century life. This dog-trot style house museum showcases hand-hewn logs and period furnishings, reflecting the history of the Owen family and their plantation.

A brief summary to Owen Plantation House

Local tips

  • Check with the West Jefferson County Historical Society for tour schedules and special events.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the house and grounds.
  • Bring a camera to capture the historic architecture and surroundings.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Bessemer, head south on US-11/US-280. Turn right onto Eastern Valley Road. The Owen Plantation House will be on your left at 1740 Eastern Valley Rd. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus to the Birmingham Transit Center. Transfer to a bus that goes to Bessemer. From there, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach Owen Plantation House at 1740 Eastern Valley Rd. Bus fare is approximately $2 - $3. Rideshare costs vary.

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Discover more about Owen Plantation House

The Owen Plantation House, dating back to 1838, stands as a testament to Alabama's rich history. Located in Bessemer, it provides visitors with an immersive experience of 19th-century plantation life. Thomas Hennington Owen began construction in 1833 with a two-room structure, later expanding it into a two-story dog-trot style house by 1838. The house is constructed with hand-hewn logs and lumber sourced from the Owen's extensive 1,000-acre plantation. Inside, elegant details such as wainscotting painted to resemble marble, shiplapped wall treatments, and paneled box columns reflect the refined tastes of the era. The house museum displays period furnishings and artifacts, offering insights into the lives of the Owen family and those who lived and worked on the plantation. During the Civil War, the plantation faced hardships, including a raid by Union General James Wilson in 1865. Despite wartime struggles, the Owen family persevered, and in the 1970s, descendants donated the house to the West Jefferson County Historical Society. Today, the historical society maintains the house as a museum, preserving its legacy for future generations.

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