Nestled in Auburn, Alabama, the historic mansion Pebble Hill stands as an enduring testament to the cultural heritage and architectural significance of the region. Originally constructed in 1847 as the Scott-Yarbrough House, this iconic structure has evolved into a museum and cultural center, encompassing over 3,000 acres of land.
Reflecting the antebellum plantation architecture of east Alabama, the mansion showcases exquisite Greek Revival design elements and period furnishings. Beyond its architectural splendor, Pebble Hill curates a remarkable collection of artwork and artifacts, offering educational programs and temporary exhibitions.
Committed to heritage preservation, the museum collaborates with institutions to promote cultural conservation. As a beacon of history and culture, Pebble Hill invites visitors to immerse themselves in its rich legacy.
Key Takeaways
- Pebble Hill, also known as the Scott-Yarbrough House, was constructed in approximately 1846 and was the centerpiece of a 100-acre plantation in Auburn, Lee County.
- The house is representative of antebellum plantation architecture in east Alabama and is built in the Greek Revival style with a square, one-story frame dwelling.
- The Scott family, Nathaniel and Mary Scott, originally owned the land and constructed the house, while the Yarbrough family, Cecil S. and Bertha Mae Yarbrough, purchased the home in 1912 and were instrumental in the growth of Auburn.
- Pebble Hill is now a museum and cultural center, covering over 3,000 acres of land and housing a significant collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Scott-Yarbrough House: Origin and Construction
The Scott-Yarbrough House was constructed in approximately 1846, serving as a prominent example of antebellum plantation architecture in east Alabama. The construction techniques employed in building this historic house reflect the craftsmanship and skills of the era, showcasing the Greek Revival style with a square, one-story frame dwelling, a central hallway, high ceilings, and a hipped, low-pitched roof.
Enslaved laborers played a pivotal role in the construction and maintenance of the property, contributing their expertise to the intricate details and upkeep of the house and its furnishings. Their invaluable contributions are an essential part of the history and heritage of the Scott-Yarbrough House.
This architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to the talent and labor of the enslaved individuals who were integral in shaping the physical landscape of the antebellum South.
Ownership and Legacy of Pebble Hill
Once acquired by the Scott family in 1846, Pebble Hill's ownership and legacy have been marked by significant contributions to the history of Auburn, Alabama.
Historical Significance of Ownership
- Scott Family's Influence: Nathaniel and Mary Scott, the original owners, played pivotal roles in the development of Auburn, including their involvement in organizing Auburn Female College and East Alabama Male College.
- Yarbrough Family's Impact: Cecil S. and Bertha Mae Yarbrough, subsequent owners, contributed to the growth of Auburn, with Cecil serving as the mayor for three terms and their instrumental role in Auburn Polytechnic Institute's development.
- Pebble Hill's Legacy: The property transitioned to Auburn University, becoming a museum and cultural center, dedicated to preserving its historic structures and engaging the community in the importance of cultural heritage conservation.
This succession of ownership has left an indelible mark on Pebble Hill's legacy.
The Scott Family's Role in Auburn's History
Playing pivotal roles in the development of Auburn, Nathaniel and Mary Scott, the original owners of Pebble Hill, left a lasting impact on the city's history. Nathaniel Scott, a prominent figure, was instrumental in founding Auburn Female College and East Alabama Male College.
The Scotts' ownership of approximately 100 acres and 63 enslaved African Americans played a significant role in the construction and function of the Scott-Yarbrough House. Enslaved African Americans were central to the maintenance and repair of the property.
Despite the Scotts' contributions to education and ownership of enslaved individuals, it's important to contextualize these actions within the historical context of the time. Their involvement in the economic and educational development of Auburn is an integral part of the city's history, representing a complex and multifaceted legacy.
The Yarbrough Family's Contributions to Auburn
Significant contributions by the Yarbrough family have shaped Auburn's development. Their impact on the city can be seen through their philanthropy efforts and civic leadership:
- Philanthropy: The Yarbrough family's philanthropic efforts have significantly contributed to the growth and prosperity of Auburn. Their generous donations have supported various educational, cultural, and community development initiatives.
- Civic Leadership: Cecil S. Yarbrough, who served as the mayor of Auburn for three terms, played a pivotal role in steering the city through periods of growth and change. His leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping Auburn's trajectory and development.
- Support for Auburn Polytechnic Institute: The Yarbrough family's support for Auburn Polytechnic Institute, now known as Auburn University, has had a lasting impact on the institution's growth and success, further solidifying their legacy in the city's history.
Architectural Features of the Scott-Yarbrough House
The Scott-Yarbrough House's architectural features showcase a distinctive blend of Greek Revival style and antebellum plantation architecture. Constructed in 1846, the house is a square, one-story frame dwelling with a central hallway, high ceilings, and a hipped, low-pitched roof.
The Greek Revival style is evident in the two-story portico adorned with Corinthian columns. Notably, enslaved African Americans made significant contributions to the construction, maintenance, and repair of the house and its furniture, emphasizing their role in shaping its architectural legacy.
Today, the house stands as a museum, housing the McKenney and Hall lithograph portrait gallery and a rare Steinway piano. Its preservation not only represents a rich historical narrative but also offers a poignant testament to the craftsmanship and contributions of enslaved individuals in the antebellum South.
Pebble Hill: Museum and Cultural Center
Pebble Hill serves as a prominent museum and cultural center in Auburn, Alabama, showcasing its rich historical and artistic heritage.
Museum and Cultural Center Highlights:
- Art Collection: Pebble Hill is home to a significant collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions featuring works from other collections, enriching the cultural experience for visitors.
- Educational Programs: The museum offers a range of educational programs for visitors of all ages, promoting an understanding of the historical and artistic significance of the collections. These programs engage the community and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.
- Conservation and Collaboration: Pebble Hill is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of its historic structures and collections. The museum collaborates with other institutions and organizations to promote heritage preservation, ensuring the continued celebration of Auburn's rich cultural legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Were the Social and Economic Conditions of the Time That Influenced the Construction of the Scott-Yarbrough House?
Social conditions and economic influences of the time, such as reliance on enslaved labor for construction and maintenance, and the plantation economy, played significant roles in shaping the construction and function of the Scott-Yarbrough House.
How Did the Enslaved African Americans Contribute to the Construction and Maintenance of the Scott-Yarbrough House?
Enslaved labor at Scott-Yarbrough House made significant construction contributions, essential to the property's formation. Amid challenging social and economic conditions, their skills and labor were integral to the creation and maintenance of this historic mansion.
What Were the Specific Contributions of the Scott Family to the Development of Auburn Female College and East Alabama Male College?
The Scott family's contributions to Auburn Female College and East Alabama Male College included fostering social conditions for education, and economic influences through their involvement in organizing and supporting the growth of these institutions, crucial to Auburn's educational development.
What Specific Initiatives or Projects Did Cecil and Bertha Mae Yarbrough Undertake to Contribute to the Growth of Auburn and Auburn Polytechnic Institute?
Cecil and Bertha Mae Yarbrough significantly contributed to Auburn's growth through diverse initiatives. Their support for Auburn Polytechnic Institute and efforts to improve social conditions and economic influences underscore their pivotal role in the city's development.
Can You Provide Details About the Rare Steinway Piano and the Mckenney and Hall Lithograph Portrait Gallery Housed in the Scott-Yarbrough House?
The rare Steinway piano and the Mckenney and Hall lithograph portrait gallery housed in the Scott-Yarbrough House at Pebble Hill, a historic mansion with rich history, provide a unique insight into the cultural and artistic heritage of the property.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the historic mansion Pebble Hill stands as a symbol of the region's rich heritage and cultural significance. Its architectural significance and remarkable collection of artwork and artifacts contribute to its status as a cultural landmark. Its evolution from a plantation to a museum and cultural center showcases its commitment to conservation and preservation.
As a beacon of history and culture, Pebble Hill continues to uphold its legacy and invites others to partake in its rich history. It serves as a must-see destination for those interested in the region's heritage, offering a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the mansion's stunning architecture, admire the extensive art collection, and learn about the people and events that shaped the area's history.
Pebble Hill's dedication to preserving and sharing its heritage ensures that future generations can appreciate and learn from the past. By providing educational programs, exhibits, and events, it actively engages the community and fosters a deeper understanding of the region's cultural roots. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the area's heritage, Pebble Hill offers a captivating and enriching experience that is not to be missed.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the history of Pebble Hill?
In 1825, Thomas Jefferson Johnson purchased the initial parcel of land that would later become Pebble Hill. The land was used to cultivate crops like cotton, sugar cane, corn, and tobacco. Similar to other plantations in the area during that era, Pebble Hill relied on enslaved labor for its operations.
Who founded Auburn University?
In 1856, the Alabama Legislature gave the official approval to establish the East Alabama Male College. The college became affiliated with the Methodist Church in 1859. Reverend William J. Sasnett served as its first president. The college welcomed eighty students and ten faculty members when it opened in 1859.
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