Savannah: Davenport House Museum Guided Tour

If you’re exploring Savannah and want to step beyond the usual tourist spots, the Davenport House Museum Guided Tour offers a fascinating peek into the city’s early 19th-century life and the preservation movement that shaped modern Savannah. This one-hour tour combines history, architecture, and storytelling — perfect for those who love authentic experiences over cookie-cutter attractions.

Two things stand out: First, the tour’s focus on preservation history makes it more than just a house tour; it’s a story about community effort and determination that saved this historic gem in 1955. Second, the opportunity to learn about both free and enslaved residents through artifacts and exhibitions provides a nuanced view of the past.

One potential drawback? The house isn’t fully wheelchair accessible, which might limit some visitors. However, the Preservation Center and Urban Enslaved Exhibition are wheelchair-friendly, and the tour overall offers meaningful insight regardless of mobility.

This experience suits travelers interested in history, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to understand Savannah’s roots beyond the typical sightseeing. It’s especially valuable for those who want an intimate, small-group setting where stories are shared with care and detail.

Key Points

• Historical Significance: The Davenport House was pivotal in Savannah’s preservation movement, sparking city-wide conservation efforts.
• Authentic Stories: Learn about the lives of both enslaved and free people who inhabited the house in the 19th century.
• Architectural Charm: Built in the Federal style by master builder Isaiah Davenport, the house showcases classic Georgian-era design.
• Cultural Impact: The house played a role in founding the Historic Savannah Foundation, highlighting Savannah’s ongoing preservation mission.
• Exhibitions & Artifacts: The tour includes a look at the Urban Enslaved Exhibition and collections of period artifacts.
• Practical Details: Located at 323 E. Broughton Street, with a small group setting and flexible booking options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Historic Kennedy Pharmacy, a charming downtown building at 323 E. Broughton Street. Check-in is straightforward — just a quick cashier visit and meet-up with your guide. The meeting point’s coordinates (32.077629, -81.087860) place you right in the heart of Savannah’s vibrant historic district, making it easy to incorporate into a walking day of exploring.

The tour lasts about one hour, which is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule. The group size is limited to just six participants, ensuring a more personal, engaging experience. You’ll want to verify availability and consider booking ahead, especially during peak seasons.

The House and Its Architecture

Once inside the Federal-style house, you’ll notice its balanced proportions, elegant moldings, and period craftsmanship — all typical of Isaiah Davenport’s work. We loved the way the preserved interiors offer a glimpse into early 19th-century life, with period furnishings and carefully curated artifacts.

Because the house is not fully wheelchair accessible, some areas may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. However, the Preservation Center and Urban Enslaved Exhibition are accessible, allowing everyone to connect with the broader story of the house’s significance.

Stories of Enslaved and Free Residents

This is where the tour really stands out. Unlike many historic house visits that focus solely on architecture or wealthy owners, this tour emphasizes the lives of all residents, highlighting stories of both the enslaved people and free individuals who lived here. Visitors will find stories and artifacts that humanize these complex histories, better understanding the social fabric of early Savannah.

The Urban Enslaved Exhibition adds a powerful dimension, providing context about the enslaved community in Savannah and their experiences. One reviewer noted, “It was eye-opening to see how the house’s history is intertwined with the stories of those who weren’t free, yet vital to the house’s story.”

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The Role in Savannah’s Preservation

A key highlight is learning how this house’s saving in 1955 by seven women sparked the preservation movement in Savannah. The house’s survival is credited with inspiring the founding of the Historic Savannah Foundation, which continues to protect the city’s architectural heritage. This makes the Davenport House not only a historic artifact but also a symbol of community activism.

Artifacts and Exhibits

Throughout the tour, you’ll see a curated collection of period artifacts, including furniture, personal belongings, and documents. These help bring the stories to life, allowing you to imagine what daily life was like for the early 19th-century residents.

In addition, the gift shop inside the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy offers souvenirs like books, ornaments, and reproductions — a nice way to take home a tangible memory of your visit.

Practical Insights for Visitors

• Timing: Check the schedule in advance, as the tour starts at specific times.
• Cost & Value: While the price is modest, the small-group setting and rich storytelling add to its value, especially for history buffs.
• Accessibility: Not fully wheelchair accessible, but the main exhibits are accessible, and the guide is knowledgeable and accommodating.
• Other Nearby Attractions: The tour pairs well with a walk through Savannah’s historic district, with plenty of cafes and shops along Broughton Street.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided experience is ideal for history lovers, architecture aficionados, and anyone interested in the social dynamics of Savannah’s past. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate authentic storytelling and small-group intimacy. If you’re traveling with children or mobility-limited guests, note the accessibility considerations but remember that much of the content can be experienced regardless.

Final Thoughts on the Davenport House Guided Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Savannah’s early 19th-century life through the lens of a pivotal house in the city’s preservation history. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make it engaging and informative, providing more depth than a typical house visit.

We appreciated how the tour connects architecture, social history, and preservation efforts, creating a layered understanding of Savannah’s roots. It’s a meaningful experience that goes beyond surface-level sightseeing, giving visitors an appreciation for the community effort that saved this historic house.

While not suitable for everyone in terms of accessibility, the tour’s focus on stories of enslaved and free residents ensures it’s educational and impactful. It’s best for travelers who want a human-centered, authentic look at Savannah’s past—a perfect addition to any comprehensive visit to this charming Southern city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the duration of the tour?
The guided tour lasts approximately one hour, making it a manageable and engaging glimpse into Savannah’s history.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Historic Kennedy Pharmacy, 323 E. Broughton Street, where you’ll check in and meet your guide.

Is the house accessible for wheelchair users?
The house itself is not fully wheelchair accessible, but the Preservation Center and Urban Enslaved Exhibition are accessible, and the guide can assist with other accommodations.

What can I expect to see during the tour?
You’ll explore the architecture of the house, learn about its original residents, and see artifacts and exhibits that tell stories of both free and enslaved individuals who lived there.

Can I buy souvenirs after the tour?
Yes, there’s a gift shop inside the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy offering books, reproductions, and souvenirs to remember your visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is educational and engaging, it’s best suited for older children and adults interested in history. Check for accessibility if traveling with mobility issues.

How many people are in each tour group?
Groups are limited to 6 participants, ensuring an intimate experience and ample opportunity for questions.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with the “reserve now & pay later” option.

This guided tour of the Davenport House Museum offers a compelling, authentic look into Savannah’s past, perfect for those eager to understand the city’s roots through engaging storytelling, historic architecture, and meaningful exhibits.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby