Knott House Museum: A Rhyming Relic of Tallahassee History

Explore Tallahassee's past at the Knott House Museum, where history rhymes with poetry and echoes of emancipation resonate through beautifully preserved Victorian rooms, offering a glimpse into the lives of a prominent Florida family.

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Knott House Museum

The Knott House Museum, nestled in Tallahassee's Capitol Hill neighborhood, offers a captivating glimpse into Florida's past. Built in 1843, this historic home witnessed significant events, including the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1865. Later, it became the residence of William Knott, a prominent state official, and his poet wife, Luella. Known as "The House That Rhymes," Luella adorned the home's Victorian furnishings with her witty and insightful poems, blending history and moral lessons. Today, the museum showcases the Knott family's life in the 1920s and 30s, providing a unique perspective on Tallahassee's social and cultural heritage. Though currently closed for preservation work, it remains a must-see historical landmark when it reopens.

A brief summary to Knott House Museum

301 E Park Ave, Tallahassee, Capitol Hill, Florida, 32301, US
+1850-922-2459
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Local tips

Check the Museum of Florida History website for updates on the reopening date and any virtual exhibits available during the closure.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Florida Historic Capitol Museum for a comprehensive overview of Florida's political history.
Explore the Capitol Hill neighborhood, known for its historic architecture and proximity to other cultural attractions.

Getting There

Walking

From the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, walk east on Apalachee Parkway, then turn left onto Calhoun Street. Walk one block north to East Park Avenue. The Knott House Museum will be on your right, at the corner of Park Avenue and Calhoun Street. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.
Public Transport

StarMetro, Tallahassee's public bus service, has several routes that stop near the Knott House Museum. Check the StarMetro website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. The closest bus stops are located on Park Avenue near the intersection with Calhoun Street. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tallahassee. A ride from downtown Tallahassee or the Greyhound bus station to the Knott House Museum typically costs between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.
Driving

From the intersection of Apalachee Parkway and Monroe Street, head north on Monroe Street. Turn right onto East Park Avenue. The Knott House Museum will be on your left. Metered street parking is available on East Park Avenue and Calhoun Street. Parking costs $1 per hour, with a two-hour time limit. Some free parking is available along the brick driveway to the left of the house.

Discover more about Knott House Museum

The Knott House Museum, an enduring landmark in Tallahassee, Florida, stands as a testament to the city's rich and multifaceted history. Constructed in 1843, the house has borne witness to pivotal moments in Florida's narrative, from the echoes of the Civil War to the vibrant cultural expressions of the early 20th century. Its walls hold stories of emancipation, political prominence, and artistic creativity, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. The house's origins trace back to George Proctor, a free black builder who crafted many antebellum homes in Tallahassee. Attorney Thomas Hagner and his bride, Catherine Gamble, were its first residents. However, the Knott House's historical significance extends far beyond its initial construction. In 1865, following the Civil War, Union Brigadier General Edward M. McCook established his headquarters in the house. On May 20th of that year, McCook stood on the front steps and declared the Emancipation Proclamation in effect, effectively ending slavery in Florida. This momentous event forever cemented the Knott House's place in African American history and the broader narrative of the Civil Rights movement. In 1928, William Knott, a prominent figure in Florida's state government, and his wife, Luella, acquired the house. William Knott served as tax auditor, comptroller, and state treasurer for over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on Florida's financial landscape. Luella Knott, however, brought a unique artistic flair to the residence. A talented musician, poet, and advocate for social causes, she transformed the house into a living canvas for her creative expressions. Luella adorned the Victorian-era furnishings with her poems, blending historical context with moral lessons, earning the house the endearing moniker, "The House That Rhymes." The Knott family resided in the house until 1985. Following the death of their son, Charlie, the property was bequeathed to the Historic Tallahassee Preservation Board. After extensive renovations, the Knott House Museum opened its doors to the public in 1992, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Knott family and a broader understanding of Tallahassee's history. In 1997, the administration of the museum was transferred to the Museum of Florida History. Stepping inside the Knott House is like stepping back in time. The museum is meticulously preserved to reflect its 1928 grandeur, showcasing the Knott family's furnishings, personal belongings, and Luella's whimsical poetry cards. Visitors can explore the various rooms, each offering a unique perspective on the family's life and the historical context of the era. The house's architecture, with its stately white columns and Victorian-era details, provides a tangible connection to the past. The Knott House Museum offers guided tours that delve into the house's history, the Knott family's story, and the significance of the Emancipation Proclamation. Knowledgeable guides share captivating anecdotes and historical insights, bringing the past to life for visitors of all ages. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, including Romantic Readings in February and the Emancipation Celebration in May, further enriching the visitor experience. Currently, the Knott House Museum is temporarily closed for historic preservation work. This closure allows for essential maintenance and improvements to ensure the long-term preservation of this invaluable historical site. During the closure, the museum is also working on creating new exhibits to further engage the public with the Knott family's story and Tallahassee history. While the physical museum is temporarily inaccessible, online resources and virtual exhibits may be available through the Museum of Florida History website, offering a glimpse into the Knott House's treasures. When the Knott House Museum reopens, visitors can expect an even more immersive and engaging experience. The preservation work will ensure that the house remains a vibrant testament to Tallahassee's past, while the new exhibits will provide fresh perspectives on the Knott family's legacy and the city's historical narrative. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about Tallahassee's cultural heritage, the Knott House Museum promises a captivating and enriching journey through time.

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Knott House Museum: A Rhyming Relic of Tallahassee History

A brief summary to Knott House Museum

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Knott House Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Knott House Museum

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

LeMoyne's Chain of Parks Art Festival

Storied Paths

LeMoyne Arts

Park Avenue Historic District

USS Tallahassee Bell

Florida Firefighters Memorial

Tallahassee Trust-Historic

Cascades Historical Plaza

Visit Tallahassee

Discovery Playground

Apollo 14 Moon Tree

The Plant

Visit Tallahassee Visitor Center

Jake Gaither House

Lighthouse of the Big Bend

Unmissable attractions to see

Bloxham Park

Ponce de Leon

Heritage Walk

Riley House Museum

Florida Liberty Bell Replica

Florida House Office Building

Union Bank Museum

Smokey Hollow

Florida Historic Capitol Museum

Kleman Plaza

Florida State Capitol

Museum of Florida History

Old City Cemetery

Korean War Memorial

Donald L. Tucker Civic Center

Essential places to dine

IL Lusso

Savour

Hayward House Bistro

The Huntsman

JoEllen’s

Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille

347 Grille by Coach Shula

Bird's Aphrodisiac Oyster Shack

Brick House Restaurant & Bar

Juicy Blue Tapas Bar & Bistro

Miller's Ale House

Charlie Park

The Edison - Restaurant Tallahassee

Yardie CC Carribean Cuisine

Shell Oyster Bar

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Stone Age

The Fuzzy Pineapple

19 Boutique

Bee's Knees

Village Art Co-op

The Other Side Vintage

Ooh La La Boutique

Patricia's Unique Boutique

Talquin Trading Co

Bows and Arrows Boutique

Picked

Wonsaponatime Vintage

Obsessions Gift Shop

Diva's & Devil's HOUSE of STYLE

Tallahassee Vintage

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Bar 1903

Level 8 Lounge