Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum | Florida Keys

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is one of Key West, Florida’s most iconic and historically significant attractions. Located at 907 Whitehead Street, this beautiful Spanish Colonial-style house was the residence of the famous American writer Ernest Hemingway from 1931 to 1939, during which time he wrote some of his most celebrated works. Today, the house is a museum that offers a glimpse into Hemingway's life, his work, and his time in Key West.

History of the Hemingway House

Ernest Hemingway moved to Key West with his second wife, Pauline Pfeiffer, in 1928. The couple purchased the home in 1931 for $8,000, and Hemingway lived there for nearly a decade, during which he wrote A Farewell to Arms, Death in the Afternoon, and parts of For Whom the Bell Tolls. The house remained in the Hemingway family until 1964, when it was sold to a private owner. In 1968, the property was opened to the public as a museum.

Architecture and Layout

The Ernest Hemingway Home is a stunning example of Spanish Colonial architecture, characterized by its lush gardens, wraparound verandas, and distinct architecture. The house itself features many unique aspects, including:

The Main House: The two-story house has a distinctive yellow exterior with white trim, complemented by large windows and arched doorways that are typical of the Spanish Colonial style. The interior is filled with antique furnishings, Hemingway's personal items, and memorabilia that reflect his life in Key West.

The Studio: Hemingway’s writing studio is located in a detached building on the property. The studio is where Hemingway worked on many of his famous pieces, and visitors can see his typewriter, bookshelves, and the space where he spent countless hours writing.

The Pool: The Hemingway House is also famous for its swimming pool, which was one of the first private pools in Key West. Hemingway's wife, Pauline, had the pool built in 1932, at a time when pools were rare in the area. The pool is now a central feature of the museum and adds to the property’s charm.

The Gardens: The house is surrounded by lush, tropical gardens with a variety of local plants and flowers, adding to the property’s serene and peaceful atmosphere. These gardens are often overlooked by visitors but provide a beautiful setting for walking and reflection.

Key Rooms in the House

Several rooms in the house are open to visitors, and each has its own historical significance:

Hemingway’s Library: One of the most important rooms in the house, the library contains many of Hemingway’s books, and it is where he did much of his reading and writing. The room is filled with natural light and has a cozy, intimate atmosphere. It’s here that Hemingway would write during his time in Key West.

The Master Bedroom: This room was Hemingway’s private retreat, and it contains his personal belongings, including a four-poster bed, which he shared with his second wife, Pauline. The room also offers a glimpse into the way Hemingway lived during his time in Key West.

The Dining Room: The dining room is a large, airy space where the Hemingways entertained guests. It is decorated with a mix of period furnishings and items that reflect the couple’s tastes during their time on the island.

The Hallway and Stairs: The hallway and staircase leading to the upper floor are filled with artwork and photographs of Hemingway and his family, providing insight into his life both in Key West and during his travels.

Hemingway’s Influence in Key West

Hemingway’s time in Key West was integral to both his personal life and his literary career. The house reflects his love for the island and its distinctive atmosphere, which influenced his writing. During his years in Key West, Hemingway was drawn to the island’s seclusion, its vibrant culture, and the surrounding waters, which provided inspiration for his writing.

Some of the author’s works that were heavily influenced by his time in Key West include:

A Farewell to Arms: Though much of this novel was written during Hemingway's time in Europe, the themes of war and loss were inspired by Hemingway’s experiences, some of which he lived through while residing in Key West.

Death in the Afternoon: A non-fiction work on the Spanish tradition of bullfighting, this book was heavily researched and written while Hemingway lived in Key West, and it reflects his love for Spain and bullfighting culture.

For Whom the Bell Tolls: Part of this famous novel was written during his time in Key West, and the book is often seen as a reflection of Hemingway's understanding of war, love, and honor.

Famous Hemingway Cats

One of the most unique features of the Hemingway Home and Museum is its colony of polydactyl cats—cats that have extra toes. These cats are descendants of a gifted cat that was given to Hemingway by a sea captain in the 1930s. The cats that live on the property are often referred to as Hemingway cats, and they have become one of the most endearing aspects of the museum. Today, there are around 50 to 60 cats that live on the property, and many of them are direct descendants of Hemingway's original cat.

The cats are well taken care of, and visitors are welcome to enjoy watching them as they roam freely around the house and gardens. The cats are an important part of the Hemingway legacy, and they add to the charm of the museum.

Tours and Visiting the Museum

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is open to the public, and visitors can explore the property with the help of a guided tour or self-guided audio tour. The tours provide a detailed look at Hemingway's life, his writing, and the history of the house. Some of the key features of the visit include:

Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides provide in-depth information about Hemingway’s time in Key West, his personal life, and his literary achievements. They also offer historical context about the house and the era in which Hemingway lived there.

Self-Guided Audio Tour: For visitors who prefer to explore the house on their own, the audio tour is a great option. The audio guide provides insights into the history of the house and the items on display.

Hours: The museum is typically open every day of the year (except major holidays), with hours typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, it's always a good idea to check ahead for any special events or schedule changes.

Admission: Admission to the museum is reasonably priced, and the tickets include access to both the house and gardens. Discounts are often available for children, students, and military personnel.

Conclusion

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is an essential stop for literature lovers and history enthusiasts visiting Key West. The house offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of one of America’s greatest writers, providing an opportunity to explore his home, his writing studio, and the beautiful grounds where he lived during some of the most productive years of his career. With its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and connection to Hemingway's legacy, it’s a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history of Key West and American literature.