National Historic Landmark
The Owens-Thomas House is a U.S. National Historic Landmark and is on the prestigious list of U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Savannah has an impressive seven points of interest on the National Historic Landmark list; with over 100 tourist attractions, any that attain this special designation deserves a visit.
Modern Marvel of 1819
The Owens-Thomas House was a modern masterpiece in its day and was the first home in the United States to have running water when it was completed in 1819. What we take for granted today was a rare luxury in this Savannah mansion in the early 19th century. Yes, it even had indoor running water before The White House in Washington D.C.
Architect William Jay
The architect who designed The Owens-Thomas House was William Jay. Born in England, he spent three years in Savannah and was celebrated as the city's finest architect. With his apprenticeship completed in England, he was also considered one of the most well-trained architects practicing his trade anywhere in the United States.
In a fascinating detail for the time period, Jay designed this English Regency home before his arrival and construction was already underway when he landed in Savannah.
Jay also designed the Alexander Telfair House, which today is known as Telfair Academy. Both The Owens-Thomas House & Telfair Academy are operated by Telfair Museums along with their new modern-art focused Jepson Center.
William Jay's Legacy
Training: Completed apprenticeship in England, most well-trained architect in America
Savannah Period: Three years creating the city's finest architectural works
Other Works: Also designed Alexander Telfair House (now Telfair Academy)
Design Process: Designed home remotely before arriving in Savannah
Family History
The home's name celebrates the family history of its owners. Purchased for $10,000 by Savannah Mayor George Owens in 1830, it remained in his family for 131 years until his granddaughter, Margaret Thomas, bequeathed it to Telfair Academy.
131 Years: Remained in the Owens family for over a century
1961: Granddaughter Margaret Thomas bequeathed house to Telfair Academy
Legacy: Now operated by Telfair Museums as historic house museum
Photo by Billy Wilson / CC BY 2.0
Historic Cellar
The cellar of the Owens-Thomas House provides a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century domestic infrastructure. This original basement space features period storage areas, wooden barrels, and the stone flooring typical of early American architecture. The cellar served essential functions for food storage and household operations in this innovative home that was ahead of its time with modern conveniences like indoor plumbing.
Visiting Information
The Owens-Thomas House faces Oglethorpe Square, which is a perfect location to snap a photo of the front of the home (photos are not allowed inside).
Tours of The Owens-Thomas House begin in the former slave quarters, which also has a gift shop for purchasing souvenirs after your tour is complete. The short walk from the former slave quarters through the beautiful garden will take you back in time as you step through the door of The Owens-Thomas House.
The visually pleasing exterior of the home is complimented by the 19th century period furnishing inside. Many of the pieces were passed from generation to generation of the Owens family, providing an authentic glimpse into 19th-century life.
Architectural Significance
Considered one of the finest examples of regency architecture in North America, The Owens-Thomas House, which celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2019, should be a top destination for any history fanatic or architecture student.
Countless tourists have ranked this as the best historic home in the city, praising both its architectural innovation and historical significance as America's first home with indoor plumbing.
- Begin in former slave quarters with gift shop
- Walk through beautiful historic gardens
- Authentic 19th-century period furnishings
- Original family heirloom pieces
- First indoor plumbing system in America
Photography Policy
Photos are not allowed inside the house, but visitors can photograph the stunning exterior from Oglethorpe Square.
The garden areas between the slave quarters and main house offer beautiful photo opportunities.