Knott House Museum
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Knott House Museum

4.7
·52 reviews·Tallahassee, United States

Step into a preserved piece of Florida history at the Knott House Museum, a PRE-statehood architectural gem and the site of the Emancipation Proclamat...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning visits

Escape the Tallahassee heat

CrowdLow
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Knott House Museum

Knott House Museum

Best Time

Morning visits

Escape the Tallahassee heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a preserved piece of Florida history at the Knott House Museum, a PRE-statehood architectural gem and the site of the Emancipation Proclamation reading.

4.7
(52 reviews)

"Our tour was really amazing. Tour guide pointed out details of house that were very interesting."

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TIP

🎯 Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are crucial for preservation. Show your appreciation! :heart:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be on your feet for the guided tour, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Emancipation Proclamation Reading Site

Emancipation Proclamation Reading Site

Steps of the Knott House Museum

Stand where history was made as the Emancipation Proclamation was read, marking the end of slavery in Florida.

Circa-1928 Furnishings

Circa-1928 Furnishings

Interior of the museum

Step back in time with original furnishings and decor from the 1928-1941 period, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

PRE-Statehood Architecture

PRE-Statehood Architecture

Exterior of the Knott House Museum

Admire the beautiful architecture of this pre-statehood home, built by a free black carpenter.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the heat and potential crowds by visiting during cooler morning hours or late afternoons. Check their operating hours before you go, as they can vary.

Donation-Based Admission

While admission is free, donations are highly encouraged and appreciated to help preserve this historic gem. Consider contributing generously to support its upkeep.

Best Times

When
Morning visits
Why
Escape the Tallahassee heat
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Enjoy cooler temperatures
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

come get scared by us friday and saturday nights! #fsu #famu #tallahassee #hauntedhouse #halloween
@kardashpeen
4.1K likes • 43K views

🎯 Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are crucial for preservation. Show your appreciation! :heart:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be on your feet for the guided tour, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

Looking for an educational way to spend the day while also escaping the heat?🔥 Head to one of the many incredible museums in #Tallahassee! 🏛️ @nationalmaglab 🏛️ The Knott House Museum 🏛️ @challengertlh 🏛️ @museumflhistory 🏛️ @famublackarchives Have you been to any of these museums? Comment below! #ChooseTLH
choosetallahassee
21 likes • 513 views
On May 20th, 1865, Union Brigadier General Edward McCook read the Emancipation Proclamation on the steps of what we now refer to as the Knott House Museum on Calhoun and Park Avenue, marking the end of slavery in Florida. Learn more here: tinyurl.com/2n533sf9
lwvtlh
2 likes • 49 views

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The guided tour can last over two hours; plan accordingly for a thorough experience. :clock1:

📸 Capture the Details

The house is full of charming details, from ceilings to unique bathtubs. :camerawithflash:

🌟 Happy Museum Day, Tallahassee! 🌟 Today, we’re celebrating the rich history, culture, and art of our amazing city by sharing Tally’s Top 10 Museums you must check out! Whether you’re into history, science, art, or something in between, there’s a spot for everyone to explore. 🏛️✨ Here’s the list of top picks (in no particular order): 1️⃣ Museum of Florida History 2️⃣ Tallahassee Museum 3️⃣ Goodw...
windy_grigsby_realtor_
4 likes • 47 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Donate Generously

Admission is free, but donations are crucial for preservation. Show your appreciation! :heart:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be on your feet for the guided tour, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

The guided tour can last over two hours; plan accordingly for a thorough experience. :clock1:

📸 Capture the Details

The house is full of charming details, from ceilings to unique bathtubs. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(52 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Knott House Museum for its fascinating history and beautiful preservation. The knowledgeable guides are frequently highlighted for making the tour engaging and informative, offering deep dives into the house's past and its significance. While small, the museum is considered a unique and worthwhile experience, especially given its free admission, though donations are highly encouraged.

"Our tour was really amazing. Tour guide pointed out details of house that were very interesting. Home is beautiful! I loved the ceilings in the main room downstairs as well as the bathtub art. Great place to go if in Tallahassee and wanting to go out and do something unique. Highly recommend."

Julia Koepke

"I took an Urban Sketching class I teach from the Tallahassee Senior Center there. We enjoyed the exterior because it was closed. But I must say that this area has some of the most beautiful architecture in Tallahassee. The turn of the century homes with gorgeous details and lovely lawns. Large oaks with moss and ferns adorn the park across the street. That block between Gadsden and Monroe at Park right at the east end of the Chain of Parks is a show stopper!"

Lib Watson

"We LOVED this place! Our visit here was the best part of our trip to Tally. It's free, but definitely leave a donation!"

Gibson Girl

What People Like

Knowledgeable and engaging guides
Beautifully preserved interiors
Historical significance of the site

What People Dislike

Can be small for some visitors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Knott House Museum is located at the corner of Calhoun and Park Avenue in Tallahassee, Florida. It's easily accessible by car and is situated near the Chain of Parks. Parking may be available on nearby streets, but check local signage for restrictions. Instagram

Information on public transport routes to the Knott House Museum is not readily available, but it's centrally located in Tallahassee, so checking local bus routes would be advisable. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Knott House Museum is free! However, donations are highly encouraged to support the preservation of this historic site. Reddit

Operating hours for the Knott House Museum can vary. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on opening days and times. Instagram

Advance ticket booking is generally not required for the Knott House Museum due to its free admission policy. However, for group tours or special events, it's always a good idea to inquire. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

A visit typically includes a guided tour where knowledgeable guides share fascinating details about the house's history, architecture, and the Knott family. You'll see circa-1928 furnishings and learn about its significance. Reddit

Guided tours of the Knott House Museum can last for over two hours, offering an in-depth exploration of the property and its historical context. Reddit

While the museum primarily focuses on its historical exhibits, it's worth checking their schedule for any special events or temporary displays that might be happening. Instagram

The Knott House Museum offers an educational experience that can be engaging for older children interested in history. The guided tour format might require them to be attentive for extended periods. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's best to ask your guide or check for posted signs regarding photography inside the museum to ensure you comply with their rules. Reddit

The exterior architecture of the house, especially the PRE-statehood design, is a popular spot for photos. Inside, unique details like the ceilings and original furnishings offer great photographic opportunities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Knott House Museum offers an educational experience that can be engaging for families. While the guided tour format requires a certain level of attention, older children interested in history might find the stories and preserved artifacts fascinating. The beautiful park across the street also provides a nice space for younger children to stretch their legs before or after the visit. Reddit

Key recommendations for families: Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more space. Discuss the historical significance of the Emancipation Proclamation beforehand to provide context. The exterior architecture and the surrounding park offer great opportunities for outdoor exploration. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Knott House Museum is a must-visit. Its significance as the site of the Emancipation Proclamation reading in Florida, coupled with its well-preserved PRE-statehood architecture and circa-1928 furnishings, offers a rich historical tapestry. The detailed guided tours provide deep insights into the lives of its inhabitants and the broader historical context of the era. Reddit

Don't miss: The opportunity to learn about the free black carpenter who built the house, the preservation efforts by the Knott family, and Mrs. Knott's personal history. The museum serves as a tangible link to pivotal moments in Florida's past. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Beacon of Freedom: The Emancipation Proclamation

The Knott House Museum holds a significant place in American history as the site where Union Brigadier General Edward McCook read the Emancipation Proclamation on May 20, 1865. This pivotal event marked the official end of slavery in Florida, a moment of profound change and liberation for thousands. Standing on the steps where this historic declaration was made offers a powerful connection to the past and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality. Instagram

This act of freedom is a cornerstone of the museum's narrative, drawing visitors who wish to connect with this crucial chapter of Florida's history. The site itself has become a symbol of hope and a testament to the enduring legacy of emancipation. Instagram

Architectural Gem and Time Capsule

Originally constructed in 1843, the Knott House Museum is a remarkable example of PRE-statehood architecture, built by a free black carpenter. Its historical integrity is further enhanced by the fact that the Knott family, who later owned the home, preserved the original furnishings and wallpaper from the main hall. This dedication to preservation has transformed the house into a vivid time capsule, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into life between 1928 and 1941. Reddit

Visitors often marvel at the preserved interiors, noting the unique details like the ceilings in the main room and the original bathtub. The house also features an outdoor kitchen and bath from the 1843 structure, which have been moved inside and maintained. Mrs. Knott's personal touches, including her poetry and active involvement in social movements like prohibition and suffrage, add another layer of depth to the historical narrative. Reddit

The Charm of the Chain of Parks

The Knott House Museum is situated in an area renowned for its beautiful architecture and lush surroundings, particularly the block between Gadsden and Monroe at Park Avenue, at the east end of Tallahassee's Chain of Parks. This picturesque setting, with large oaks draped in moss and ferns, provides a stunning backdrop for the historic homes in the vicinity. Reddit

Many visitors, including those attending sketching classes, find the exterior of the Knott House and its surrounding parkland to be a source of inspiration. The combination of historical architecture and natural beauty makes this part of Tallahassee a truly captivating place to explore. Reddit

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