In the Alabama “Black Belt,” there is a quaint, small town by the name of Demopolis. In this town is one of the country’s finest examples of pre-Civil War architecture. The Smithsonian Guide to Historic America called it “one of the three or four most interesting houses in America.” This antebellum mansion is called Gaineswood.

Gaineswood, which is on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a National Landmark, was built by General Nathan Bryan Whitfield for his family within the time period of 1843-1861. This home exhibits Greek-Revival architecture with Italianate influences, as the interior displays elaborate plaster work throughout and two dome ceilings with central skylights.

The antebellum mansion of Gaineswood has experienced many ups and downs in its long and extensive history, from its beginnings as a small cabin, to the massive expansion by General Nathan Bryan Whitfield, all the way to the numerous restoration efforts today. It is a shining Jewel along Alabama’s “Black Belt.” (Meghan Crawford, Flagler College)

References:

Logan, William Bryant, Vance Muse, and Roger G. Kennedy. "The Black Belt," n The Smithsonian Guide to Historic America: The Deep South (NY: Stewart, Tabori & Chang, 1989), 202-233.

"Alabama Historical Commission - Gaineswood." Alabama Historical Commission. http://www.preserveala.org/gaineswood.aspx (accessed November 8, 2010).