History
This was the first act of the Historic Savannah Foundation, which has gone on to save hundreds buildings in the historic city through its renowned revolving loan fund and other historic preservation activities. In 1955, the Davenport House became the office for Historic Savannah Foundation as well as a family services agency. Sensing the potential for an historic site, the first floor of the house was restored and opened to the public as a museum on March 9, 1963. Years later the second and third floors were opened and Historic Savannah Foundation moved its offices to another building. Beginning in the mid-1980s leaders of the museum began an effort to adhere to professional museum standards. In the mid-1990s the museum began a re-restoration process, which resulted in a more authentic experience for museum visitors, including period wallpaper and period room furnishings which reflect the inventory taken at the time of Isaiah Davenport's death in 1827.
Specialties
The stately Federal-style home, built by master carpenter Isaiah Davenport for his household, provides a glimpse into 1820s domestic life in the urban port city of Savannah. In 1955 the saving the Davenport House from demolition was the first effort of Historic Savannah Foundation, which has gone on to national prominence as a preservation leader as well as ushering in the preservation renaissance of the coastal city. It is open for tours daily. There are also evening and specialty tours offered throughout the year. See our website for information - www.davenporthousemuseum.org