McGowan-Barksdale-Bundy House
The McGowan-Barksdale-Bundy House, also known as the “General’s House,” is a prominent historic residence located at 211 North Main Street in Abbeville, South Carolina. Constructed in 1888, this Queen Anne-style home is renowned for its architectural significance and its association with notable military figures.
Architectural Significance
Designed by Atlanta architect G.L. Norman, the house exemplifies the Queen Anne style, characterized by:
- Towers and turrets
- Multi-faceted roofs
- Varied window sizes and shapes
- Diverse textures in exterior materials
The structure features a 2½-story white frame with an irregular plan, including a square central block, a two-story round turret, and a central one-story porch with a two-story central bay. The exterior is adorned with weatherboard siding on the first story and imbricated shingles on the second, complemented by multiple porches and decorative woodwork .
The house was built by Confederate Brigadier General Samuel McGowan on the foundation of his previous Gothic Revival home, which was destroyed by fire in 1887. General McGowan, a distinguished figure in both the Mexican-American War and the Civil War, later served as an Associate Justice on the South Carolina Supreme Court from 1879 to 1893. He resided in this house until his death in 1897 .
In 1905, the property was acquired by the Barksdale family, and World War II General William E. Barksdale became its last private resident. In 1989, his nephew, J.D. Bundy, donated the house to the Abbeville County Historical Society, ensuring its preservation as a historic site .
Today, the McGowan-Barksdale-Bundy House serves as the headquarters for the Abbeville County Historical Society and the Jane Greene Center for the Arts. The house is open for tours by appointment, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and architectural splendor. To schedule a tour, please contact the Abbeville County Historical Society at 864-366-8193 .
