Davenport house, Savannah

1 more image

The finest example of Federalist architecture in Savannah. It came close to being demolished to make room for a parking lot but became the first major preservation effort of seven local ladies who formed the Historic Savannah Foundation. It had been in the hands of different families and was even subdivided as tenements before being abandoned so the way it looks presently is an estimation of how it might have looked originally, but great care was given to choosing colors and patterns based on research of what was available and actually used in homes in Savannah during the time period it was built.

Admission is $8 adults, $5 children 6-17

The Davenport House is the house that started the efforts to save Savannah's historic buildings. Faced with demolition in the 1950s, the house was saved by a group of local women who organized a campaign to raise funds for its restoration. The house was built in 1820 by Isaiah Davenport, a local builder who used it as both his family's home and his business office. The Davenport house is not as lavish as some of the other homes in Savannah that offer tours. It is an example of a middle class family residence, and provided an interesting contrast to some of the other homes that we toured.

the isaiah davenport house was built in 1820 and is considered the finest federal style house in the city. the davenport house is open to the public.

This house was the impetus for Savannah's restoration boom that began in the 1950's and led to the city's revival and subsequent boom in tourism.