Sit a Spell   // History // Architecture     
  • Lowndes CountySouthwest Alabama

About

Gaineswood is a National Historic Landmark located in Demopolis, Marengo County, Alabama. This magnificent antebellum home was built between 1843 and 1861 for Nathan Bryan Whitfield, a successful planter, businessman, and politician. Designed by architect and builder John Mills, Gaineswood is one of the most significant examples of Greek Revival architecture in the South.

The house features a grand two-story portico supported by four massive Corinthian columns, and the interior is adorned with elaborate plasterwork and ornate woodwork. The house is furnished with many original pieces belonging to the Whitfield family, including a grand piano, four-poster beds, and a settee made by Duncan Phyfe.

The grounds surrounding the home were once home to a large number of enslaved people, and today, visitors can take a guided tour of the house and grounds to learn about the history of the people who lived and worked there. The property also features a carriage house, gardens, and a museum dedicated to the history of Demopolis and the surrounding area.

The Alabama Historical Commission owns this historic site. Friends of Gaineswood is the support group in charge of operating the site.

Location:

805 S Cedar Avenue
Demopolis, AL 36732

(334) 289-4846
Related Listings

Antioch Baptist Church

Antioch Baptist Church, established in 1885, is one of the oldest African-American churches in Wilcox...
Read More

Centre for Commerce

The Centre of Commerce Selma AL is a non-profit organization that focuses on promoting economic...
Read More

First Baptist Church

Established as First “Colored” Baptist Church, we are the oldest black church in Selma and...
Read More

First Baptist Church of Selma

The First Baptist Church of Selma was organized on May 29, 1842, with Rev. Solon...
Read More

Gaineswood National Historic Landmark

Gaineswood, a National Historic Landmark, was constructed over an 18 year period (1843-1861). Owner and...
Read More

Laird Cottage/Geneva Mercer Museum

Laird Cottage, built in 1870, is the headquarters of the Marengo County Historical Society and...
Read More

Lyon Hall

Lyon Hall is a Greek Revival residence constructed between 1850-1853 by slaves of George Gaines...
Read More

Monroeville Downtown Historic District

The self-guided, one-hour tour starts at Old Courthouse Museum. Walk the town where Harper Lee...
Read More

Old Town Historic District

The Old Town Historic District is the largest historic district in Alabama with more than...
Read More

Robert’s Cabin

The Roberts Cabin, built in the 1860s, is a historic log cabin located in Pine...
Read More

Sturdivant Hall Museum

Sturdivant Hall, also known as the Watts-Parkman-Gillman Home, is a historic Greek Revival mansion and...
Read More

The Walton Theater

The Walton Theater in Selma, AL is a historic venue that was built in 1914...
Read More

Vaughan-Smitherman Museum

Museum is currently closed. Call 334-875-9430 or 334-412-3546 for updated information---This Greek revival building was...
Read More