Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters - brown and white concrete building near bare trees during daytime
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Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

4.5
·2k reviews·Savannah, United States

A meticulously preserved 1819 English Regency mansion and its slave quarters, offering a profound look at Savannah's complex history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
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Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters - brown and white concrete building near bare trees during daytime

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A meticulously preserved 1819 English Regency mansion and its slave quarters, offering a profound look at Savannah's complex history.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A powerful and beautifully preserved piece of Savannah’s history, offering honest storytelling."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photography Welcome

Capture the stunning architecture and interiors; photos are generally allowed inside.

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tours are Key

The knowledgeable guides bring the history to life, making the experience truly immersive.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Restored Slave Quarters

Restored Slave Quarters

Ground floor and outbuildings

A poignant and essential part of the story, offering a glimpse into the lives of the enslaved.

Instagram
Regency Architecture

Regency Architecture

The main house

Admire the elegant English Regency design, a testament to 19th-century architectural prowess.

Instagram
Parterre Garden

Parterre Garden

Rear of the house

A beautifully maintained garden offering a serene escape and a glimpse into historical landscaping.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking your guided tour ahead of time is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

Embrace the Full Story

This house offers a unique perspective on Savannah's history, detailing the lives of both the wealthy inhabitants and the enslaved people who lived and worked there. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Sunlight for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Part 2 Coming soon!#famoushomes #scary #luxuryhomes #savannah #goodandevil #ghost #hauntedhouse #hauntedtiktok #scarystories #haunted #fyp #foryou #mansion
@historichauntings
11.9K likes • 399.8K views

📸 Photography Welcome

Capture the stunning architecture and interiors; photos are generally allowed inside. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tours are Key

The knowledgeable guides bring the history to life, making the experience truly immersive. Reddit

The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters in Savannah is unique in that it tells the entire story of all of the people who lived here including the enslaved ones. Besides the stunning architecture and art there is a focus on the lives of the 19th century’s most and least powerful people and how they interacted on a daily basis. . . . The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is part of the @telfairmu...
discoveringcoastalgeorgia
13 likes • 367 views
The Owens-Thomas House is a historic home in Savannah, Georgia that is operated as a historic house museum by Telfair Museums. It is located at 124 Abercorn Street, on the northeast corner of Oglethorpe Square. The Owens-Thomas House was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976, as one of the nation’s finest examples of English Regency architecture. We went on a tour that included an explo...
mariothatsmiles
24 likes • 282 views

💰 Ticket Value

Your ticket often includes access to other Telfair Museums, offering great value. Reddit

👻 Paranormal Interest

Some visitors report eerie experiences; it's known for its historical and potential paranormal tales. TikTokInstagram

Last week, I visited the Owens-Thomas House in Savannah, Georgia. Took a lot of pictures! This is a painting of the drawing room. The tour guide mentioned how the carpets were cleaned in the 1800s- the carpet was pulled apart in strips and washed and then hand sown back together. I tried to capture the darkness of the room with the bright sunlight coming through. I think it was around 90 degrees...
lizamacherart
0 likes • 252 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photography Welcome

Capture the stunning architecture and interiors; photos are generally allowed inside. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tours are Key

The knowledgeable guides bring the history to life, making the experience truly immersive. Reddit

💰 Ticket Value

Your ticket often includes access to other Telfair Museums, offering great value. Reddit

👻 Paranormal Interest

Some visitors report eerie experiences; it's known for its historical and potential paranormal tales. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters for its deeply informative and moving guided tours, highlighting the knowledgeable staff and the honest portrayal of both the wealthy family's life and the enslaved people's experiences. The well-preserved architecture and gardens are also frequently mentioned as highlights, making it a significant and educational stop in Savannah.

"I'm glad we toured this place. Our kids loved the history and the very knowledgeable staff/tour guides, made the history of the house and how it was ran, very imaginable. The house is very well preserved and the story of the house itself is intriguing. Our kids were fascinated. At the end of the tour, you are able to read the captured notes from letters sent from some of the home's inhabitants. Pictures are welcomed! I wish I would've taken more, but I was REALLY intrigued."

Elsa Olivarez

"We didn’t book in advance but were able to join a group beginning a guided tour almost immaculate. The guide was outstanding. It’s an interesting visit in terms of the unique architecture, the view of life at that time in such a home with enslaved people an integral part of the system, and the unique historical roles played by some of the inhabitants. So, a small place, a home, but an experience that’s interesting and revealing on several levels. We’re glad we stumbled onto this place."

Paul Cantrell

"A powerful and beautifully preserved piece of Savannah’s history. The Owens-Thomas House offers a rare blend of stunning Regency architecture and honest storytelling about both the wealthy family and the enslaved people who lived there. The restored slave quarters are especially moving. Guided tours are informative and well-paced. Highly recommend for a meaningful and educational experience."

Ryan

What People Like

Knowledgeable and passionate guides
Honest portrayal of history
Beautiful architecture and garden

What People Dislike

Limited accessibility to upper floors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Owens-Thomas House is conveniently located at 124 Abercorn Street, on the northeast corner of Oglethorpe Square in Savannah, Georgia. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in the historic district, or you can use ride-sharing services. Parking in Savannah can be challenging, so consider walking or public transport if possible. Instagram

Street parking is available but can be limited and metered. There are also several parking garages within walking distance, such as the Whitaker Street Garage or the Bryan Street Garage. It's advisable to check current parking rates and availability before your visit. Reddit

Savannah's public bus system, Chatham Area Transit (CAT), serves the historic district. You can check their routes and schedules to see if a bus stop is conveniently located near the Owens-Thomas House. Many visitors find it easy to walk to the house from other parts of downtown. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but generally, admission is around $25-$30 per adult. It's a good idea to check the official Telfair Museums website for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential discounts. InstagramReddit

While walk-in tickets may be available, booking your guided tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy periods, to ensure you get your preferred time slot. Reddit

The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters typically operates from 10 AM to 5 PM, with the last tour starting at 4 PM. However, hours can change seasonally or for special events, so it's best to verify the current schedule on the Telfair Museums website before your visit. Reddit

Yes, tickets for the Owens-Thomas House often include admission to two other Telfair Museums: the Telfair Academy and the Jepson Center for the Arts, offering excellent value for history and art enthusiasts. Reddit

Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and children. Check the Telfair Museums website for details on any available concessions or special offers. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The guided tours are highly praised for their knowledgeable and passionate guides who provide in-depth insights into the house's history, architecture, and the lives of its inhabitants, both free and enslaved. InstagramReddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the house, allowing you to capture the beautiful interiors and historical details. However, it's always good practice to confirm with your guide. Instagram

The restored slave quarters offer a powerful and moving perspective on the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked at the house. They are a crucial part of understanding the full historical narrative. Instagram

The main house has limited accessibility due to its historic nature. The ground floor and garden are generally accessible, but upper floors may require climbing stairs. It's advisable to contact the museum in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs. Reddit

The parterre garden is a beautifully restored example of 19th-century landscaping, offering a tranquil space to explore and appreciate historical horticultural practices. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The drawing room with its natural light, the elegant Regency architecture of the exterior, and the serene parterre garden are all fantastic for photography. Don't forget the unique details within the slave quarters. Instagram+1

While general photography is allowed, it's best to avoid using flash to protect the historical artifacts and artwork. Always check for signage or ask your guide if unsure. Instagram

For personal use, photography is usually fine. However, for commercial photography or professional shoots, you'll likely need to obtain special permission from the Telfair Museums. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is a fantastic educational outing for families. The knowledgeable guides make history engaging and imaginative for children, bringing the stories of the house and its inhabitants to life. Reddit The well-preserved interiors and the distinct narrative of the slave quarters offer valuable learning opportunities about different historical perspectives. Instagram

Kids often find the stories of daily life in the 19th century fascinating, and the opportunity to read captured notes from inhabitants adds a personal touch. The beautiful garden also provides a pleasant space for a brief respite. Remember that the content can be sensitive, so be prepared for discussions about slavery. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history and architecture, the Owens-Thomas House is a must-visit. Its status as a National Historic Landmark and a superb example of English Regency architecture designed by William Jay makes it a significant site. Instagram+1 You'll gain deep insights into 19th-century Savannah, from the lifestyle of wealthy families to the integral role of enslaved labor. Reddit

The meticulously restored interiors, period furnishings, and the authentic slave quarters offer a rich, layered historical experience. The ticket often includes access to other Telfair Museums, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Savannah's cultural heritage. Reddit

👻 Paranormal Investigators & Curious Minds

Savannah is renowned for its ghost stories, and the Owens-Thomas House is no exception. Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts have reported eerie experiences and a palpable atmosphere within the historic walls. TikTokInstagram While the primary focus is historical, the house's long and complex past has fueled tales of hauntings and supernatural occurrences. Instagram

If you're drawn to the mysterious side of history, the Owens-Thomas House offers a compelling blend of documented history and local lore. It's a place where the past feels very present, making it an intriguing stop for those interested in the spectral side of Savannah. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dual Narratives: Wealth and Slavery

The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is distinguished by its commitment to presenting a comprehensive history, acknowledging both the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy Owens and Thomas families and the harsh realities faced by the enslaved individuals who sustained their lives. This dual narrative is crucial for understanding the complex social and economic fabric of the antebellum South. Instagram

Visitors are guided through the main house, showcasing its stunning English Regency architecture and period furnishings, offering a glimpse into the lives of the privileged. Simultaneously, the tour delves into the restored slave quarters, providing a more somber yet vital perspective on the labor, living conditions, and humanity of those who were enslaved. This honest storytelling makes the experience particularly impactful and educational. Reddit

This approach ensures that the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters is not just a showcase of historical architecture but a profound educational site that encourages reflection on the intertwined histories of freedom and bondage in America. The knowledgeable guides play a key role in facilitating this understanding, making the complex history accessible and relatable. TikTokInstagram

Architectural Significance and Design

Built between 1816 and 1819, the Owens-Thomas House is a prime example of English Regency architecture in the United States. Designed by William Jay, a prominent architect who also designed other notable Savannah buildings, the house showcases the style's characteristic symmetry, elegant proportions, and refined decorative elements. Instagram+1

The interior features a drawing-room, dining room, and library, all meticulously preserved with period furniture and artwork. The drawing-room, in particular, is noted for its natural light and detailed decor, offering a sense of the grandeur of the era. The house also boasts a unique parterre garden, designed in the French style, which adds to its historical charm and provides a beautiful outdoor space. Instagram+1

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the architecture also reflects the social structures of the time. The layout and design of the house, including the placement of the slave quarters, were integral to the functioning of the household and the display of wealth and status. Understanding the architecture provides context for the lives lived within its walls. Instagram

Beyond the House: The Slave Quarters Experience

The slave quarters at the Owens-Thomas House are a critical component of the visitor experience, offering a stark contrast to the opulence of the main residence. These quarters, often overlooked in historical narratives, are presented here with dignity and respect, allowing visitors to understand the daily lives, labor, and resilience of the enslaved people. Instagram

Tour guides often highlight the specific conditions and routines of the enslaved individuals, from their living spaces to their roles in maintaining the household. This part of the tour is frequently described as moving and eye-opening, providing a more complete and honest picture of Savannah's past. Reddit

By dedicating significant attention to the slave quarters, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters fulfills its mission to tell the entire story of the people who inhabited the property, fostering a deeper understanding of the historical complexities and human experiences that shaped the region. Instagram

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