Andrew Low House

The Andrew Low House stands as a testament to Savannah’s rich architectural heritage. This Greek Revival masterpiece, with its grand Ionic columns and intricate woodwork, once served as the residence of prominent businessman Andrew Low. Today, guided tours offer a glimpse into the Low family’s influential legacy, shedding light on their contributions to the city’s cultural landscape. While the property’s impressive gardens are a delight for visitors, the accessibility challenges posed by the historic structure may limit the experience for some. The Andrew Low House remains a captivating destination for those intrigued by Savannah’s storied past.

Key Points

• The Andrew Low House is a well-preserved historic landmark in Savannah, Georgia, constructed in 1848 as the residence of prominent businessman Andrew Low.
• The house exemplifies Greek Revival architecture, featuring Ionic columns, elaborate woodwork, and preserved original flooring and staircase.
• The Low family’s legacy is explored through guided tours, which provide insights into their influential role in Savannah’s cultural and philanthropic landscape.
• The tours highlight the architectural grandeur of the property and share stories about the Low family’s prominence in Savannah society.
• While the property is not fully wheelchair accessible, guided tours offer insights into the home’s history and architecture for visitors.

Historical Significance

The Andrew Low House serves as a testament to Savannah’s rich history, having been constructed in 1848 and serving as the residence of prominent businessman and philanthropist Andrew Low.

A prime example of Greek Revival architecture, the house features grand columns, intricate woodwork, and a spacious layout that reflects the affluence of its former owners.

Today, the Andrew Low House stands as a well-preserved historic landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and times of one of Savannah’s most influential families.

The museum’s guided tours provide an in-depth exploration of the house’s architectural details and the Low family’s legacy.

Architectural Features

Elegant columns and intricate woodwork define the architectural splendor of the Andrew Low House. Built in 1848, this historic landmark showcases remarkable craftsmanship.

The house features:

1. Ionic columns adorning the façade, a hallmark of Greek Revival style.
2. Elaborately carved mantles and moldings throughout the interior.
3. Impressive double-hung windows providing ample natural light.
4. Preserved original flooring and staircase, offering a glimpse into the home’s past.

These architectural elements combine to create a captivating and well-preserved historic residence, transporting visitors back to the 19th century Savannah.

The Low Family Legacy

Beyond the architectural grandeur of the Andrew Low House lies the captivating legacy of the Low family. Andrew Low, a Scottish merchant, established the family’s prominence in Savannah’s mercantile elite. His descendants continued this tradition, contributing to the city’s cultural and philanthropic landscape.

Andrew Low	Anna Matilda Stiles	Charles Low
Merchant	Philanthropist	Diplomat
1812-1886	1822-1892	1836-1908
Founder	Established Girls’	Served as
	Charity School	U.S. Consul

This remarkable family’s legacy lives on through the preservation of their historic home, offering visitors a glimpse into Savannah’s past.

Tour Highlights

Visitors to the Andrew Low House are treated to a captivating tour that highlights the property’s architectural grandeur and the family’s rich history.

Guided tours immerse guests in intriguing narratives about the Low family and the estate’s design. The experience includes:

1. Exploration of the impressive gardens and grounds.
2. Insights into the house’s Greek Revival architecture.
3. Stories about the Low family’s prominence in Savannah society.
4. Access to select areas of the home, including the basement administrative offices.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the overall beauty of the historic landmark.

Visitor Experiences

The Andrew Low House offers a captivating visitor experience for those seeking a glimpse into Savannah’s rich history. Guided tours take guests through the meticulously restored 1848 landmark, regaling them with tales of the Low family’s legacy.

Visitors can explore the impressive gardens and learn about the house’s striking architecture. While only about 30% of the collection is original, the docents bring the space to life with their engaging storytelling.

Most travelers can participate in the tours, though the property is not wheelchair accessible. With a range of positive reviews, the Andrew Low House provides an enriching historical excursion.

Accessibility and Amenities

Although the Andrew Low House offers a captivating historical experience, the property’s accessibility is limited.

The home is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted.

Visitors should note the following:

1. Tours are conducted by docents and do not accommodate mobility aids.
2. The basement, which houses administrative and research offices, is off-limits to the general public.
3. Certain areas of the home have restricted access, limiting the full exploration experience.
4. Parking is available nearby, but guests must navigate steps to reach the entrance.

Preservation and Conservation

As a historic landmark, the Andrew Low House is dedicated to preserving and conserving its rich architectural and cultural heritage.

The museum’s efforts prioritize maintaining the authenticity of the 1848 property, with approximately 30% of the collection being original to the Low family.

While some visitors have noted the lack of original family items, the museum emphasizes its commitment to careful preservation.

The basement houses administrative and research offices, ensuring the stewardship of the property’s history.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors to the Andrew Low House can also explore a variety of other historic sites and attractions in the vicinity.

Within a short distance, travelers can visit:

1. Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace – The childhood home of the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA.
2. Savannah History Museum – Features exhibits on the city’s rich history and culture.
3. Talmadge Memorial Bridge – An iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the Savannah River.
4. Savannah Riverboat Cruises – Provide sightseeing tours along the picturesque waterfront.

These nearby options offer visitors a well-rounded experience exploring Savannah’s past and present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the House Open on Holidays?

The house is open on most holidays, with the exception of major holidays like Christmas Day. Visitors can explore the historic landmark and attend guided tours during the normal operating hours on most public holidays.

Can I Take Photos Inside the House?

Photography is generally allowed inside the house, but visitors are advised to check with staff upon arrival for any current restrictions or guidelines. Some areas may have limited photo access to preserve the historic integrity of the spaces.

Do Guided Tours Have an Age Limit?

The guided tours at the Andrew Low House do not have an age limit. Visitors of all ages can participate in the docent-led tours, which provide insights into the house’s history and architecture. Families are welcome to explore the museum together.

Is There a Gift Shop On-Site?

Yes, the Andrew Low House offers a gift shop on-site for visitors to browse and purchase souvenirs. The gift shop features a selection of historical items, books, and locally-made crafts related to the house and Savannah’s heritage.

Can I Book a Private Tour?

Yes, private tours can be booked at the Andrew Low House. The museum offers guided tours for individuals or small groups to explore the historic landmark at their own pace. Advance reservations are recommended.

The Sum Up

The Andrew Low House stands as a captivating historical and architectural gem in Savannah. Guided tours offer a glimpse into the lives of the influential Low family and the property’s well-preserved features. While accessibility is limited, the house and its gardens provide a unique opportunity to experience Savannah’s rich cultural heritage. This Greek Revival landmark continues to be an enduring testament to the city’s storied past.