Savannah: Davenport House Museum Guided Tour

Imagine wandering through Savannah’s historic streets, then stepping into a well-preserved early 19th-century house that’s central to the city’s preservation movement. The Davenport House Museum Guided Tour offers just that—an intimate, hour-long look at Savannah’s past, focusing on the house’s architecture, its role in saving the city’s historic districts, and the stories of the people who once lived there.

The tour starts at the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy in downtown Savannah, where you check in and meet your guide. From there, you’ll explore the American Federal-style house built by master builder Isaiah Davenport, a key figure in Savannah’s architectural history. What we love about this experience is how it combines architecture, social history, and preservation activism into a compact, engaging package.

Two aspects stand out: first, the story of the house’s preservation—it was saved from demolition in 1955 by seven women, igniting Savannah’s preservation movement. Second, the chance to hear personal stories of those who lived here, including the enslaved and free residents, gives a tangible sense of life in early 19th-century Savannah.

A possible consideration is that the house isn’t fully wheelchair accessible, which might limit some visitors’ experience. However, the Preservation Center and Urban Enslaved Exhibition are accessible, ensuring that most visitors can still gain meaningful insights.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone interested in how a small house can spark a city-wide movement. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic stories and tangible connections to the past.

Key Points

• Historic Significance: The house played a pivotal role in Savannah’s preservation movement.
• Authentic Stories: Learn about the lives of both enslaved and free residents who lived here.
• Architectural Charm: Built in the Federal style, the house showcases early 19th-century craftsmanship.
• Cultural Impact: The tour highlights how community activism can shape a city’s future.
• Accessible Exhibits: While the house itself isn’t fully wheelchair accessible, the Preservation Center is.
• Small Group Experience: With limited participants, you’ll enjoy a more personalized, in-depth visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Davenport House Museum guided tour offers an engaging peek into Savannah’s past, driven by expert guides who bring the house’s stories to life. Starting at the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy, you’ll check in with a friendly cashier, then meet your guide—often a local with a passion for Savannah’s history. The short walk to the house itself is a chance to soak in the charming downtown atmosphere, setting the stage for what’s ahead.

Once inside, the House’s architecture immediately catches your eye. Built in the early 1800s, it exemplifies the Federal style, with elegant proportions, historic details, and period furnishings. Your guide will point out architectural features like the fireplaces, moldings, and staircases, helping you appreciate the craftsmanship of the era.

The focus of the tour is multi-layered. First, you’ll learn about Isaiah Davenport, the master builder whose vision shaped this house. The story of how the house was nearly demolished in the 1950s, and how a group of women saved it, is both inspiring and revealing of the local activism that helped preserve Savannah’s historic core. One visitor described it as “a house that saved a city,” emphasizing its symbolic importance.

Next, the guide will explore the lives of the people who called this house home, emphasizing the dual realities faced by free and enslaved residents. The Urban Enslaved Exhibition offers a stark reminder of Savannah’s complex history, showing artifacts and stories of those who were enslaved and worked here. Visitors often comment on how these narratives add depth to the visit, making history feel real and personal.

Throughout, the guide’s storytelling is both informative and conversational, making ancient stories easy to follow. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide was passionate and engaging, making history come alive in a way I hadn’t experienced before.” The small group size means questions are encouraged, and you can take your time exploring each room and artifact.

The gift shop, located in the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy, is more than just a souvenir stop. It offers well-curated items—books, crafts, and local goods—that help you remember your visit and deepen your understanding of Savannah.

While the house itself isn’t fully wheelchair accessible, the Preservation Center and Urban Enslaved Exhibition are accessible. This inclusion ensures that most visitors can still explore some of the key exhibits and gain valuable insights into Savannah’s history.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At just about an hour, the tour’s length makes it a manageable addition to a busy Savannah itinerary. The small group format ensures a more personalized experience, likely to be more engaging than larger, more impersonal tours. The cost is reasonable considering the depth of history covered, especially since it connects architecture, social history, and preservation activism.

The focus on storytelling—not just about the house but about the community, the struggles, and the triumphs—adds richness that many other tours might lack. Plus, the museum’s role in sparking Savannah’s preservation movement makes this tour more than just a house visit; it’s a lesson in community power.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers who appreciate authentic stories, architecture fans curious about Federal style buildings, and travelers interested in preservation efforts. It’s also a good fit for small groups who prefer intimate, engaging tours rather than large bus excursions.

Keep in mind, if you or someone in your group has mobility issues, you might want to plan for the parts of the experience that are accessible. Overall, anyone with a curiosity about Savannah’s social fabric and the homes that shaped its history will find this tour rewarding.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Since the tour is an hour long and focused on history and architecture, it can be suitable for children with an interest in these topics. However, very young children might find the content less engaging, and the house’s historic environment might require supervision.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it easy to fit into your day without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy, 323 E. Broughton Street, where you’ll check in and meet your guide.

Is the house accessible for wheelchair users?
The house itself is not fully wheelchair accessible, but the Preservation Center and Urban Enslaved Exhibition are accessible to visitors in wheelchairs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. A camera and curiosity are encouraged, but photography inside the house may be restricted.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, the gift shop offers souvenirs, books, and local products to remember your visit.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its focus on Savannah’s preservation history and stories of the house’s residents provide a meaningful connection to the city’s past, making it more than just a house tour.

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Final Thoughts

A visit to the Davenport House Museum Guided Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Savannah’s early architecture, social history, and preservation efforts. For those who love stories rooted in real places and real people, this tour delivers plenty of authentic moments packed into a concise hour.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to understand how a single house can inspire a city’s identity and appreciate the efforts of individuals who fought to keep Savannah’s historic charm alive. The combination of architecture, history, and community spirit makes this tour a smart choice for anyone eager to explore the heart of Savannah’s past.

Whether as a standalone activity or part of a broader city exploration, the Davenport House Museum Guided Tour provides a meaningful, engaging experience that highlights the importance of preservation and stories that truly bring history to life.