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Built in 1829, the
Gorgas House was the first structure to be built on the University of
Alabama campus and stands as an excellent example of Low Country
architecture. The Gorgas House is one of only four buildings on campus
to survive the Civil War and the only one designed by renowned architect
William Nichols. Originally built as a "hotel" or "steward's
hall." The house served as a dining hall for the University
students
until the mid-19th century when it became a faculty residence. The Gorgas family lived there from 1879-1953. The residence is now a
house museum with collections of antiques and Gorgas family memorabilia.
The Gorgas House may be rented for special events. In 1878,
Confederate General Josiah Gorgas was appointed 7th president of the
University, but shortly retired to the Gorgas House because of ill
health. His wife, Amelia Gayle Gorgas, served as the University's
nurse, postmistress and librarian from 1883 -1907. During the time
they lived in the house, it was used as an infirmary, a post office, and
a refuge for homesick cadets. Maria Gorgas, the last remaining
child of Josiah and Amelia Gorgas, lived in the house until her death in
1953. The
Gorgas House has many functions and |
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