Mercer-Williams House | Savannah

Information

Landmark: Mercer-Williams House
City: Savannah
Country: USA Georgia
Continent: North America

Mercer-Williams House, Savannah, USA Georgia, North America

The Mercer-Williams House is a historic house museum located in Savannah, Georgia, USA.

This Italianate-style mansion is situated at 427 Bull Street in the heart of the city's historic district.

Visual Characteristics

The house is a three-story structure constructed primarily of brick, with a stuccoed facade painted a pale yellow. It features a low-pitched hip roof with a cupola. The exterior is characterized by tall, arched windows, decorative ironwork on the balconies, and a prominent portico with Corinthian columns. The interior retains much of its original detailing, including plasterwork, woodwork, and flooring.

Location & Access Logistics

The Mercer-Williams House is located at 427 Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401. It is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south of the Savannah Riverfront. On-street parking is available on Bull Street and surrounding avenues, though it is metered and can be limited. Public transportation options include the Chatham Area Transit (CAT) bus system; the nearest stops are typically within a 5-minute walk along Bull Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Mercer-Williams House began in 1860, designed by architect John S. Norris. It was originally intended for General Hugh W. Mercer, a great-grandfather of the songwriter Johnny Mercer. The house was never completed for Mercer and was later purchased by Jim Williams, a prominent Savannah antiques dealer and preservationist, in 1969. Williams undertook extensive renovations and restoration.

Key Highlights & Activities

Guided tours of the house are available, detailing its history, architecture, and the events associated with its former residents. Visitors can view the preserved interiors, including period furnishings and artwork. The house is also known for its association with the true crime book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available for visitors within the house. Limited shaded areas are present on the property's grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in this urban area. Food vendors and restaurants are located within walking distance in the surrounding historic district.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the exterior is mid-morning or late afternoon when the sunlight provides optimal illumination of the facade. The best months for visiting are generally spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) due to moderate temperatures. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

The house gained significant notoriety due to its role in the 1981 murder trial of Jim Williams, which was later chronicled in John Berendt's non-fiction book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." The book's narrative has led to the house being a point of interest for those familiar with the story.