Visiting the Belle Mont Mansion was the highlight of my trip South. Built somewhere around 1828 for a Dr. Alexander Williams Mitchell, the mansion has both 'Jeffersonian' and 'Palladian' design. It is definitely not like some of the plantation houses you see on 'Gone With The Wind' but it is still a handsome home made with hand-made brick, original wood floors and marble fireplaces. It has been under restoration for some time now as it sat empty for 30 years. Vandals had taken much of its original stair risers and marble mantel pieces as well. Over $335,000 has been spent so far to restore it to its former splendor. I came with my mom today as it was their annual 'Old Time' Christmas party, where volunteers and historians dress up in clothing of the 1860's. There were many women in hoop skirts walking around, eager to tell us the history of the place. I have read it was haunted by the family who bought the place from Dr. Mitchell, The Winston's. The husband, Isaac, died here in 1863 and his wife Catherine died here 20 years later. Upon looking at the picture I took of her portrait, I found an orb to the right of the painting. I didn't use a flash and no one was around me at the time. But the strangest experience happened soon after my arrival in the entrance salon. There was a large Christmas tree standing over in the corner, festooned with original, antique Christmas ornaments. One of the volunteers was explaining how a Mrs. Burke made these ornaments by hand. Just as she mentioned her name, an Christmas ball fell from the tree and rolled to within an inch of where I was standing. :Hello Mrs. Burke!" I said. FOr $6.00 per person, we got an in depth tour, wonderful refreshments, a choral group singing carols, musicians and ballroom dancing! I also reacquainted myself with the curator/guide from Helen Keller's home, Elizabeth Hargrove. She remembered our visit this past April! A most rewarding experience..Belle Mont is open for tours Thur.-Sat. 8 am-4pm and Sun. 1-5pm. If you're ever around Tuscumbia, please check this beautiful home out. read more

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