Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace | Savannah

The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, located at 10 East Oglethorpe Avenue in Savannah, Georgia, is a distinguished historic mansion recognized both for its architectural beauty and its profound cultural significance as the childhood home of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA.

1. Architectural Design and Features

Built between 1818 and 1821, the house is a classic example of Regency architecture, a style characterized by elegance, symmetry, and refined detail that was popular in England during the early 19th century. The building’s design is attributed to William Jay, a prominent English architect who settled in Savannah and contributed significantly to the city’s architectural landscape.

Exterior: The home is a two-and-a-half-story brick structure with a smooth stucco finish, painted in soft, muted tones typical of Regency style. It features a balanced façade with evenly spaced windows and a refined entrance with sidelights and a transom above the door.

Windows and Doors: Tall, narrow windows with delicate muntins allow ample natural light, adding to the airy feel of the interiors. The front door is accented by a graceful fanlight and sidelights, contributing to the home’s welcoming appearance.

Interior: The interiors reflect Regency elegance with high ceilings, decorative plasterwork, and intricate wood trim. Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully arranged around a central hallway, allowing for good ventilation and flow.

2. Historical Background and Ownership

The house was originally built for James Moore Wayne, a distinguished Savannah attorney who later served as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

In 1831, the property was purchased by Sarah and William Washington Gordon, Juliette Gordon Low’s grandparents. The Gordon family was influential in Savannah’s social and economic life.

Juliette Gordon was born in 1860 and lived in the house until her marriage in 1886. The house served as her family home through four generations, witnessing her upbringing and formative years.

The Gordon family’s ownership extended well into the 20th century, preserving the home as a family legacy.

3. Juliette Gordon Low and the Girl Scouts

Juliette Gordon Low is celebrated as the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA, established in 1912. Her vision was to create an organization that would empower girls with leadership skills, outdoor experiences, and community service opportunities.

The birthplace museum provides a comprehensive look into Juliette’s early life, family history, and the events that shaped her passion for youth development.

Many personal items, photographs, and artifacts related to Juliette and her family are displayed, offering insight into her character and the era in which she lived.

The museum highlights Juliette’s artistic talents, showcasing original works created by her, including needlework, paintings, and letters.

4. Preservation and Museum Development

By the mid-20th century, the house had fallen into disrepair. Recognizing its historical importance, the Girl Scouts of the USA purchased the property in 1953 with the goal of restoring it as a tribute to their founder.

A comprehensive restoration was undertaken, aimed at returning the home to its early 19th-century appearance while maintaining historical accuracy.

The house reopened as a museum in 1956, featuring carefully restored rooms with period-appropriate furnishings and many original family heirlooms.

The adjacent garden was designed in the 1950s by noted landscape architect Clermont Huger Lee, reflecting a Victorian parterre style. This garden complements the historic ambiance and serves as a serene outdoor space.

5. Educational and Visitor Experience

Today, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace operates as a vibrant museum offering guided tours and educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages.

Guided Tours: These tours explore the architecture, family history, and Juliette Gordon Low’s legacy. Docents provide detailed narratives about her life, the house’s significance, and the cultural context of Savannah during the 19th century.

Educational Programs: The museum hosts programs tailored for Girl Scouts, school groups, and the general public, emphasizing leadership, history, and community values.

Accessibility Improvements: In 2012, the museum underwent significant renovations to enhance accessibility, including the addition of elevators and ramps, making the historic home welcoming to all visitors.

6. Location and Surroundings

Situated on Oglethorpe Avenue, the birthplace lies within Savannah’s historic district, an area known for its cobblestone streets, historic squares, and well-preserved architecture. The house fits seamlessly into the neighborhood, offering visitors an authentic glimpse of antebellum Savannah’s residential elegance.

Summary

The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is much more than a historic house; it is a cultural landmark that tells the story of an extraordinary woman who shaped American youth culture through the founding of the Girl Scouts. Architecturally, it is a beautiful example of Regency style, reflecting the refined tastes of early 19th-century Savannah elite. Historically, it embodies the life and legacy of Juliette Gordon Low and her family, preserving their personal stories and contributions to American society. The site functions as a museum dedicated to education, preservation, and inspiration, inviting visitors to connect with Savannah’s past and the enduring spirit of leadership and service championed by Juliette Gordon Low.