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The Telfair Museums is a complex of three distinct art museums located in Savannah, Georgia, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The Telfair Academy building is a Neoclassical structure constructed from stuccoed brick, painted a pale yellow. It features a prominent portico with Corinthian columns. The Owens-Thomas House is an Regency-style mansion built with brick, featuring a stuccoed facade and a distinctive raised basement. The Jepson Center for the Arts is a contemporary building with a glass and concrete exterior, characterized by sharp angles and large window expanses.

Location & Access Logistics

The Telfair Museums are situated in Savannah's historic district. The Telfair Academy and Jepson Center are located at 121 Barnard Street, approximately 0.5km South of the Savannah River. The Owens-Thomas House is located at 124 Abercorn Street, approximately 0.3km Southeast of the Telfair Academy. Parking is available in nearby public garages, such as the Bryan Street Parking Garage (0.2km North of the Telfair Academy). Several CAT (Chatham Area Transit) bus lines serve the downtown area, with stops within walking distance of all three sites.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Telfair Academy building was originally the Telfair Mansion, completed in 1819 and designed by William Jay. It was bequeathed to the city by Mary Telfair in 1875, becoming Georgia's first public art museum. The Owens-Thomas House was also designed by William Jay and completed in 1819, serving as a private residence. The Jepson Center for the Arts is a modern addition, designed by Moshe Safdie and opened in 2006.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view permanent collections of American, European, and Asian art at the Telfair Academy. The Owens-Thomas House offers tours detailing its history and architecture, including its role as a slave dwelling. The Jepson Center features rotating exhibitions, a children's educational wing, and a sculpture garden.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at all three locations. Limited shaded areas are present in the sculpture garden at the Jepson Center. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the museum complex. Food vendors and restaurants are located within a 0.5km radius in the historic district.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography of the exterior architecture is during the morning or late afternoon for optimal natural light. The museums are open year-round, with weekdays generally less crowded than weekends. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the Owens-Thomas House is haunted by the ghost of a former resident. The house is notable for its advanced architectural features for its time, including an indoor bathroom with running water.

Nearby Landmarks

• • Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (0.4km Southwest)

  • Forsyth Park (1.2km South)

  • River Street (0.5km North)

  • Colonial Park Cemetery (0.3km Northwest)

  • Historic Savannah Theatre (0.2km West)