Mobile, Alabama, boasts a rich tapestry of history showcased in its historic homes. Explore stunning grand staircases, exquisite antique furnishings, and an abundance of Southern charm that spans over 300 years. Embark on a fascinating journey into the lives of the esteemed Southern elite and their dedicated servants through Mobile, Alabama’s historic mansions and home tours.
Bragg-Mitchell Mansion
The Bragg-Mitchell Mansion, built in 1855, is a stunning Greek Revival landmark and one of the most photographed spots in Mobile, Alabama. Judge John Bragg had it constructed to impress during Mobile’s social season, and its grandeur still shines through—from the sweeping circular staircase to the elegant double parlors and spacious entertaining rooms.
Set beneath centuries-old oaks draped in Spanish moss, the mansion also holds Civil War history. Fearing a Union invasion, cannons were once placed on the front lawn—but the battle never came, and the home survived untouched.
Although my visit was cut short due to a private event, the incredibly kind staff gave me a 10-minute tour, showcasing genuine Southern hospitality.
Admission is $12, and the first and second floors are handicap accessible.
Ghosts on the Grounds
No historic home is complete without a few ghost stories—and the Bragg-Mitchell Mansion is no exception. Visitors have reported odd encounters like a ghostly cat wandering the grounds and even a phantom sneeze. Quirky as those sound, more chilling happenings include doors opening and closing on their own, an elevator that moves by itself, unexplained voices, and sightings of Judge Bragg’s ghost.
The most haunting tale is of a woman often seen gazing from an upstairs window. Legend says she fell in love with an enslaved man and still waits for him long after death.
Just one hour from Mobile is Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, one of our favorite Southern and beach destinations. Learn more about where we like to stay and eat in the Alabama Beaches here.
Oakleigh House
Built in 1833, Oakleigh House is just minutes from downtown Mobile and stands as the city’s premier period house museum. This beautifully preserved Greek Revival home tells the story of Mobile’s past through the lives of four families over three centuries—touching on cotton farming, urban slavery, railroad expansion, the Civil War, and emancipation.
One of the home’s most notable residents was Madame Octavia Walton LeVert, who was credited with restoring the mansion. Her portrait still hangs in the entry hall. A fun fact from the tour: future President James Garfield once sipped his first authentic Southern mint julep right on Oakleigh’s front porch.
Photography isn’t allowed inside, but thanks to a kind guide, I snapped a photo of a unique feature called a “jib window”—a small door beneath a window that lets in a breeze when opened.
Oakleigh House is a true gem and a must for anyone wanting to experience Mobile’s rich history.
Oakleigh House Grounds and Ghosts
Behind Oakleigh House sits the “Cook’s House,” a small structure once considered the original kitchen quarters. Later research revealed it was built in 1866 to house married Union soldiers during Reconstruction.
Today, it sheds light on the lives of African-American servants after Emancipation and tells the story of the Union occupation. It’s also part of Mobile’s Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail.
Oakleigh also has its share of ghostly tales. Visitors have reported the swish of petticoats and glimpses of a woman in white—believed to be a spirit named Miss Daisy. Others claim to have seen a man in a tailcoat wandering the halls.
And while not a ghost, the lifelike mannequin dressed in black mourning attire in one bedroom gave me quite the scare during my visit!
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Richards DAR House Museum
In Mobile’s DeTonti Square neighborhood, the 1860 Italianate-style Richards DAR House is a stunning tribute to the legacy of Captain Charles Richards and his wife, Caroline. Now maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution, the home is a beautifully preserved period museum.
Step inside, and you’ll find ruby Bohemian glass windows, a marble-tiled foyer, a grand mahogany staircase, and one of Mobile’s most enormous chandeliers. Unlike many historic homes, visitors are welcome to sit on the antique furniture—mainly from the 1870s, though not original to the house.
The friendly and knowledgeable DAR guides bring the home’s history to life, even serving complimentary tea and cookies—a warm touch of Southern hospitality.
Of course, no historic house is complete without a few ghost stories. Staff say the spirits are early risers, often making their presence known as the house is opened for the day. Caroline Richards and several of her 12 children are said to linger still, especially in the children’s room, where toys and teddy bears are known to mysteriously move. One recurring voice—believed to be Caroline’s—has even been heard scolding the little ones from beyond.
This article was originally written by Paige Minds the Gap for the Travel the South Bloggers website in 2019. Staff partially updated it for this site in 2025.