Montgomery–Janes–Whittaker House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Montgomery–Janes–Whittaker House
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The house in 2010
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 Location in Alabama
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Prattville, Alabama |
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| Area | 4 acres (1.6 ha) |
| Built | 1822–1844 |
| Architect | Montgomery, William |
| Architectural style | Federal |
| NRHP reference No. | 74000396 |
| Added to NRHP | October 25, 1974 |
The Montgomery–Janes–Whittaker House, often called Buena Vista, is an old and beautiful plantation house located in Autauga County, Alabama, near Prattville. It was built in the Federal style, which was popular in the early 1800s. This special house was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 25, 1974, meaning it's an important historical site. Today, it's owned by the Autauga County Heritage Association and works as a historic house museum, where people can visit and learn about its past.
History of Buena Vista House
The building of the Montgomery–Janes–Whittaker House began in 1822. It was started by early landowners, either John W. Freeman or Josiah Huie. The house was finished in 1844 by its next owner, William Montgomery.
Over the years, the house changed hands many times. In 1910, Mary Emma Scott Stewart bought the property. Later, in 1937, the Fred Whittaker family became the owners. The Whittakers worked hard to restore the house. They also added modern features to make it more comfortable.
In 1982, a company called Union Camp Corporation bought the house. This company was in the paper business. They allowed the Autauga County Heritage Association to help take care of the house. This partnership helped keep the historic home safe. In 2007, the house was officially given to the association.
What the House Looks Like
The Montgomery–Janes–Whittaker House is a two-and-a-half-story building. It is made of wood. One special feature is the delicate fanlights. These are window designs shaped like a fan. You can see them above the front doors and on the sides of the house.
Inside, the house has beautiful plasterwork. This is decorative work made from plaster. There is also a grand spiral staircase. It is made of dark mahogany wood. This staircase goes all the way from the first floor to the attic.
Later, a large front porch was added. This porch has tall, fancy columns. It was added during the Colonial Revival period. The Whittaker family also made some changes. They changed the porch floor to brick. They also added cast iron details to the second-floor balcony.
See also
