The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion Built between 1859 and 1862, the Mansion is one of the best examples of pre-Civil War architecture and home design for a wealthy family. Carefully restored in recent years, the historic home serves primarily as a venue for private events, but it is open for guided tours as well. Sitting just a few blocks off the interstate, is one of the best examples of pre-Civil War architecture and home design for a wealthy family. Carefully restored in recent years, the historic home serves primarily as a venue for private events, but it is open for guided tours as well. Sitting just a few blocks off the interstate,
History:
The Jemison - Van de Graaff Mansion was one of the last and most elaborate houses to be built in Alabama before the Civil War. The Italianate house was probably designed by Philadelphia architect Samuel Sloane and construction was overseen by John Stewart who was in Tuscaloosa supervising the construction of Bryce Hospital. Jemison’s home incorporated the latest innovations including an elaborate plumbing system, and indoor lighting fueled by coal gas, a gas stove, and an early form of a refrigerator. In the 1940’s, J.P. and Nell Burchfield purchased the house and undertook a major restoration of the structure. From 1955 to 1979 the mansion served as the Friedman Public Library. In 1991, the City of Tuscaloosa acquired the Mansion and deeded it to the Jemison - Van de Graaff Mansion Foundation that insures the Mansion’s restoration and preservation. Using grants, donations, and financial support from the City of Tuscaloosa, this not-for-profit foundation is in the process of carefully researching and restoring this beautiful Mansion to its original appearance.
