Ivy Green facts for kids
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Ivy Green (Helen Keller Birthplace*)
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Ivy Green in 2009
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 Location in Alabama
Location in the United States
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| Location | 300 West North Commons, Tuscumbia, Alabama, United States |
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| Area | 10 acres (4.0 ha) |
| Built | 1820 |
| Architect | David Keller; Mary Fairfax Moore |
| NRHP reference No. | 70000101 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | August 25, 1970 |
| Designated NHL | March 31, 1992 |
Ivy Green is a famous historic house in Tuscumbia, Alabama. It was built in 1820 and is known as the birthplace and childhood home of Helen Keller. Helen Keller (1880–1968) became very well-known for learning to communicate even though she was deaf and blind. She grew up to be a successful author and public speaker.
Today, Ivy Green is a historic house museum. It helps people learn about Helen Keller's amazing life and achievements. This special place is also recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
Contents
Exploring Ivy Green: Helen Keller's Childhood Home
Ivy Green is located in a quiet neighborhood in Tuscumbia. The property has a main house, a smaller cottage where Helen was born, and a very important well. The main house is a charming, one-and-a-half-story building made of wood. It has a classic look with a sloped roof and a welcoming front porch.
The Birthplace Cottage and the Well
Near the main house is the birthplace cottage. This was originally an office for the plantation. It was later made into a special room for Helen Keller's mother, where Helen was born in 1880. Between these two buildings, you'll find the well and its pump. This spot is incredibly important in Helen Keller's story.
A Breakthrough Moment at the Well
The main house at Ivy Green was built in 1820 by David Keller, who was Helen Keller's grandfather. The well pump is where Helen Keller had her first big breakthrough in communication. This happened with her teacher and friend, Anne Sullivan. It was at this well that Helen finally understood that words had meaning, changing her life forever.
Ivy Green as a Museum
In 1954, Ivy Green was opened as a museum dedicated to Helen Keller. This allowed many people to visit and learn about her inspiring journey. In 1972, a small fire caused some damage, but it also led to the Keller family donating even more items to the museum. This helped the museum grow and share more of Helen's story.
The Miracle Worker: A Play About Helen Keller
Every summer for more than 30 years, the Helen Keller Foundation has put on outdoor plays at Ivy Green. They perform The Miracle Worker, a famous play by William Gibson. This play tells the powerful story of Helen Keller and her teacher, Anne Sullivan.
The play is usually performed from early June through mid-July. It is especially popular during the Helen Keller Festival, which takes place in Tuscumbia every June. Many visitors come to see the play and celebrate Helen Keller's legacy.
See also
In Spanish: Ivy Green para niños
