Adena Mansion and Gardens | Chillicothe

Adena Mansion and Gardens – Detailed Overview

Location:
847 Adena Road, Chillicothe, Ohio

Historical Significance

Adena Mansion is a historically important estate that was the home of Thomas Worthington, Ohio’s sixth governor and one of the state’s founding figures. The mansion is named after the "Adena" culture, a prehistoric Native American culture in the Ohio Valley region, though the house itself dates from the early 19th century.

Built in 1807, the mansion was designed by the renowned architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who is often called the “father of American architecture.” Latrobe’s influence is significant because Adena Mansion is one of only three surviving houses designed by him in the United States, making it a rare architectural treasure.

Architecture and Grounds

Style: Federal style, with classic lines and symmetry common to early American architecture.

Structure: The mansion contains 20 rooms, including 16 fireplaces, showcasing the grandeur of early Ohio settlements.

Interiors: The interior features original furnishings, family heirlooms, and period-appropriate antiques that paint a vivid picture of life in the early 1800s.

Gardens: Surrounding the mansion are approximately 300 acres of landscaped formal gardens, woodlands, and walking paths. These gardens are meticulously restored to reflect the historical period, featuring a combination of native plants, flowers, and trees that would have been typical for the era.

Educational and Visitor Experience

Museum and Education Center: The site includes a museum offering exhibits focused on early European settlement in Ohio and Native American history related to the Adena culture.

Tours: Guided mansion tours allow visitors to explore the rich history and architectural details of the home. Docents provide insights into the life of Thomas Worthington, the house's architecture, and the history of the region.

Special Programs: Educational programs are available for school groups and visitors, often centered on history, archaeology, and horticulture.

Events: The estate hosts seasonal events including historic reenactments, garden tours, and community celebrations.

Visiting Information

Hours (April 19 – October 26):

Wednesday to Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Closed on July 4th

Last mansion tour starts at 3:30 p.m.

Admission Fees:

Adults: $12

Seniors: $11

Children (ages 6-12): $6

Children under 6: Free

Members of Ohio History Connection and Adena Mansion & Gardens Society: Free

Nearby Attractions

Fort Hill Earthworks & Nature Preserve: A prehistoric earthwork site near Chillicothe offering hiking and exploration of ancient Native American mounds.

Serpent Mound: A famous effigy mound shaped like a snake, built by ancient indigenous cultures and located within driving distance, often paired with a visit to Adena Mansion.

Contact and Additional Resources

Phone: 740-772-1500

The site provides further resources including event schedules, membership information, and volunteer opportunities.

This detailed historical estate offers a rich experience for visitors interested in early American architecture, Ohio history, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is a must-visit site for tourists exploring Chillicothe and the broader Ohio Valley region.