Thomas Rowan was the son of Irish immigrants, who settled in Saint Clair County, Alabama in c.1854. He later purchased 130 acres in Leeds and built a home along an early stagecoach route, referred to as “The Rowan Oaks House.” John Thomas Rowan, an heir of the home, and Ada Scott Rowan, his wife, later created an extension on the house and turned the home into a turn-of-the-century farmhouse. According to Alabama Communities of Excellence and the Leeds Historical Society, the home was the first in the area with an indoor sink and a hand pump. The Rowan family were prominent farmers and landowners in the region for generations. Despite having little information on the Rowans and how they came to the United States, they came to America during a wave of Irish immigrants looking for a better life.
In 1979, the last family member to live in the home died and the property began to decline. However, in 1998 builder Charles Kessler Jr. purchased the property to develop a subdivision called Woodruff Farms. The Leeds Historical Society convinced Kessler to donate the home and the lot that it resides on to the Leeds Historical Society. Volunteer workers restored the home and gave it a new life.
The home features the original pine floors, authentic woodwork that has been restored, stained glass that was hand-crafted, and beautiful antiques and accessories from the era the home was built. The home has been updated with modern technology such as central heating and air and a full-service kitchen. It is a blend of simplicity, charm and elegance and has reminiscent from the era it was created. In April 2000, it was dedicated to the people of the community. The Rowan House is now a place to host events such as weddings, showers, and community gatherings.
Today, the Leeds Historical Society strives to maintain and preserve the beautiful home of the earliest settlers in the area. Being located on a busy highway leading to the city, the citizens of Leeds often see this home in passing. It is amazing to go inside and become part of our local history. Tours are available by appointment through the Leeds Historical Society.
About the Author
Lauren Self is an alumna of The University of Alabama at Birmingham, majoring in history, and high school education. Lauren is from Moody Alabama, located outside of the Birmingham area.
