Mobile, AL – Oakleigh

“Oakleigh” is the specific house from which Mobile’s Garden District derives its name. Though I have spent some time searching around the internet, I was disappointed to find very little information about the house. In fact, the most informative source was the historic marker at the property. Oakleigh is open for tours, but closed on Sundays – the day that I visited... (Read more below.)

“Started in 1833 by James Roper on a Spanish land grant, “Oakleigh” was named for the magnificent oaks around it. The “T” shaped dwelling with elegant parlors and curved outside stairway from the brick terrace to the front gallery was well suited for a semi-tropical climate. Many famous visitors, including President James Garfield, were entertained here. It was included in the Historic American building Survey and the National Register of Historic Places. Acquired by the City of Mobile in 1955. Now operated as a museum by Historic Mobile Preservation Soeciety, it reflects antebellum life in this city.   

Following pictures in order walking from front of house, right side, to back of house: