Inside a Savannah Mansion
May we guide you through Savannah?
On New Year’s Eve, we had the opportunity to meet Alvin Neely, a true Savannahian in every sense of the word. We had been invited to his house for a couple drinks, and were left speechless when we came through the front door. His mansion, so impressive from the outside, was even more amazing once you stepped inside.
Built in 1887 by William G. Preston, the brick mansion just south of Gaston Street boasts complicated interior architecture, rounded arches and turrets. In the 30-odd years he’s owned it, Alvin’s done a excellent job of maintaining and restoring the house’s original elements, and decorating it with artwork and antique furniture. Juergen asked how he went about choosing what art to buy for his home. “Buy? No, this is all stuff I get for free”. He pointed to a beautiful painting of a dancing jester. “The artist gave me this in exchange for a month’s rent”, he said, chuckling about what a great deal that had been.
William G. Preston was also the architect of the late, lamented DeSoto Hotel. Alvin reminisced about that building, which was torn down to make space for the hideous Hilton DeSoto. He got out a book of old images from Savannah, back in the days when the live oaks which now tower over the city’s squares were just saplings. A member of the Historic Savannah Foundation, Alvin recounted some of the battles which he helped fight … the DeSoto was one they lost.
We had a great time hanging out with Alvin and seeing his house. Our time in the city is winding down, and I think one of the memories we’ll always carry is how welcoming and friendly the people of Savannah have been to us. It’s been wonderful.
| Other Posts You Might Like from Savannah | ...and Oviedo | ||
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| Happy 2011 in Savannah | Fine Dining at The Olde Pink House | Old Town Trolley Tours | The Asturian Museum of Fine Arts |
January 21, 2011 at 6:21 pm
January 21, 2011 at 6:47 pmSandy Traub
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How amazing … the sailboat stained glass window, antique sink, beautiful ceramic. What a choice opportunity to be so welcomed in Mr. Neely’s home of treasures!
January 21, 2011 at 6:50 pmJuergen
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We still can’t believe our luck to meet Mr. Neely.
January 21, 2011 at 8:40 pmrobin jenkins
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Thanks for allowing us into Mr. Neely’s home with you. It is absolutely beautiful and so much character. He looks like he would have some interesting stories to tell too. Thanks again
January 21, 2011 at 8:50 pmJuergen
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Robin, thank you so much for commenting. He did tell us some great stories… I think he’s had quite an interesting life!
January 21, 2011 at 9:37 pmBrad Powell
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I think this is the most fantastic and interesting aspect of your 91 Day adventures. Certainly, the descriptions and photos of the places and things you’ve seen are outstanding. But, the chance for you to experience, then share with us, the people you’ve met….priceless !
January 22, 2011 at 10:23 ammarlene
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thanks so much for sharing your adventure with us. we also got a chance to travel cross country for a few months and savannah was my very favorite city on the trip. these pictures make me want to hitch up the airstream and hit the road again. Right now
January 22, 2011 at 11:05 amtammy
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This is such a beautiful home!! I was standing outside it on my bike one day and Mr Neely came out and talked to me and he was such a nice man! Thank you for sharing these beautiful pics with us!!!!!
February 5, 2011 at 8:07 amElizabeth Anderson
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I love this! What a gorgeous home. He sounds like a nice guy, too. Agree on the “get over yourself, Mercer home”.
April 30, 2011 at 10:57 pmIsabella Davis
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I have lived in the Savannah area for over 30 years now and have always admired the architecture of this awesome home. Every chance I get I ride by and try to get a few photos. Thanks for taking me inside after all these years.
Many thanks for doing such a wonderful presentation of this beautiful Southern gem,Savannah!
Your images were wonderful and quite creatively displayed.
Best Wishes, Isabella