Historic Residence in Bella Mina, AL (1826)

This vintage photograph captures the historic residence in Bella Mina, Limestone County, Alabama, built in 1826 by Governor Bradley Bibb, the second governor of Alabama. The structure is a two-story brick house, notable for its six Doric columns on the front porch, which exemplifies the architectural style of the period.

The building, though in fair condition at the time of the photograph, has undergone significant changes. The slave quarters, however, were noted to be in poor condition, reflecting a complex history. During the Civil War, the house was occupied by Federal troops, adding to its historical significance.

This image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a project dedicated to documenting the architectural heritage of the southern United States. The survey provides valuable insight into the regions historical structures and their evolution over time. For further exploration of the architecture in Alabama, visit the Library of Congress resources.