Mendenhall Homeplace
Explore a restored 19th-century Quaker homestead, uncovering its rich history of abolitionism and local legends.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spooky ghost tours await!
Mendenhall Homeplace
Best Time
Spooky ghost tours await!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a restored 19th-century Quaker homestead, uncovering its rich history of abolitionism and local legends.
"Shawn Rogers is a font of knowledge - he has historical factoids and anecdotes for every corner of the house and property."
Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for deep historical insights and engaging stories. :walking:
Check Event Schedule
Special events like ghost tours & Christmas tours are popular! :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Quaker Abolitionist History
Main House
Explore the progressive history of the Quaker abolitionist movement and its impact on freedom.

Dr. Coffin's House
Adjacent to Mendenhall House
A fascinating, albeit macabre, adjacent house offering a unique glimpse into historical practices.

Period Furnishings & Equipment
Throughout the Homeplace
See meticulously restored 19th-century items that bring the past to life.

Lydia's Bridge Legend
Near Lydia's Bridge
Uncover the spooky legend of Lydia's Bridge, a local tale that captivates visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Stories
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for deep historical insights and engaging stories.
:walking:Check Event Schedule
Special events like ghost tours & Christmas tours are popular!
:calendar:Allow 2 Hours
You won't want to miss any of the treasures and stories.
:stopwatch:Explore the Grounds
Beyond the houses, discover barns and surrounding historical land.
:evergreen_tree:Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for deep historical insights and engaging stories.
:walking:Check Event Schedule
Special events like ghost tours & Christmas tours are popular!
:calendar:Allow 2 Hours
You won't want to miss any of the treasures and stories.
:stopwatch:Explore the Grounds
Beyond the houses, discover barns and surrounding historical land.
:evergreen_tree:Embrace the Spooky
Don't miss the ghost tours for a hauntingly good time!
:ghost:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mendenhall Homeplace for its exceptional historical preservation and the deeply informative, engaging tours led by passionate staff. The site offers a rich tapestry of Quaker history, abolitionist efforts, and local legends, with special events adding seasonal charm and spooky thrills. While generally well-received, some may find the historical depth requires significant time commitment.
"We had a wonderful time visiting Mendenhall Homeplace. Our tour was extremely informational and very impressive. They have done an exceptional job in restoring and gathering furniture, pictures, and other items belonging to the Mendenhall family to place back in the home. I highly recommend going!"
Marijean Fleming
"A lovely experience. I stopped by on a whim, and was blown away by the depth of history and hospitality. Shawn Rogers is a font of knowledge - he has historical factoids and anecdotes for every corner of the house and property, and is always eager to share them. His tour gave me a deep appreciation of the house and grounds that I would never have had otherwise. If you are at all interested in local NC history and have an afternoon to spare, I highly recommend."
Quinn Fergusson
"We had a wonderful time visiting Mendenhall Homeplace. We were especially impressed with the preservation (and heart) that has gone into the details, the little things. My favorite part is Dr. Coffin's house, adjacent to the Mendenhall house, on site. A bit macabre, but fascinating! The Jamestown Historical Society has done an outstanding job maintaining the site and planning lively events to essentially keep the house "alive"."
Rae Cornwell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mendenhall Homeplace is located in Jamestown, NC. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors mention it's a great stop when exploring the Triad area.
While the historic nature of the site presents some challenges, the Jamestown Historical Society strives to make it as accessible as possible. It's best to contact them directly for specific accessibility information regarding tours and grounds. :wheelchair:
From Greensboro, expect about a 20-30 minute drive. From Winston-Salem or High Point, it's typically around 30-45 minutes.
:car:🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, especially for special events. General tours are reasonably priced, and some community events are free. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current pricing.
:ticket:For regular tours, booking in advance is often recommended, especially if you want a specific time slot. For special events like ghost tours or holiday events, advance booking is highly advised as they sell out quickly.
:computer:Operating hours can vary seasonally and are often extended for special events. It's crucial to check their official schedule online or on social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
:clock:Yes, Mendenhall Homeplace occasionally hosts free historical events, such as Black History Open Houses. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements about these opportunities.
:moneywithwings:On-site ticket purchases may be available for regular tours, but it's not guaranteed, especially during peak times or special events. To avoid disappointment, pre-booking is the safest bet. :credit_card:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the restored 19th-century houses, learn about Quaker history and the abolitionist movement, see period furnishings, and hear fascinating local legends like Lydia's Bridge.
Absolutely! Guided tours are highly recommended. Staff and volunteers, like Shawn Rogers, are praised for their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the history come alive.
:microphone:Yes, Mendenhall Homeplace offers family-friendly events and tours that can be engaging for children, especially during Halloween or Christmas.
:child:They host a variety of events, including historical reenactments, village fairs, spooky ghost tours in October, and festive candlelight tours in December.
:party_popper:Most visitors recommend allocating at least two hours to fully experience the homeplace, especially if you're taking a guided tour and exploring the grounds.
:timer:🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Homeplace itself doesn't typically have a full-service restaurant, they often partner with food vendors during special events, offering things like artisan BBQ.
:hamburger:The grounds may offer areas suitable for picnics, especially during events. It's best to check their specific policies regarding outside food and seating arrangements. :sandwich:
Jamestown and nearby High Point offer a variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to more formal dining. You'll find options to suit different tastes and budgets. :forkandknife:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, interior photography might be restricted to preserve the historic artifacts and furnishings. Exterior photography is usually permitted. Always check for signage or ask your guide. :camera:
The historic architecture of the houses, the charming barns, and the surrounding natural landscape offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Special events like the candlelight tours also provide unique visual moments.
:bridgeatnight:While not always advertised, photographers might find opportunities during special events or by arranging a private visit. The unique historical setting provides a rich backdrop.
:artist_palette:For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a village fair or a special community day where there might be more interactive elements. While the historical content can be deep, the overall atmosphere and the chance to explore old buildings and grounds can be an adventure for kids. It's a great way to introduce them to local history in a tangible setting.
👻 Ghost Tour Enthusiasts
These tours are highly popular and tend to sell out, so booking in advance is strongly recommended. It's a unique way to experience the Mendenhall Homeplace, offering a different perspective than the daytime historical tours.
📚 History Buffs
Pay special attention to the stories of the Underground Railroad and the progressive ideals of the Quaker community. The adjacent Dr. Coffin's house also presents a fascinating, albeit darker, historical aspect to explore. Allow ample time to absorb the rich history and appreciate the preservation efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Quaker Influence and Abolitionist Movement
Guided tours often delve into the specific methods used by the Quakers to aid in the Underground Railroad, highlighting the bravery and dedication involved. The preservation of the homeplace ensures that these important stories of social justice and human rights continue to be told and remembered. The historical society has done an exceptional job in gathering artifacts and information to illustrate this crucial aspect of American history.
Understanding this context adds a profound layer to the visit, transforming it from a simple historical house tour into an exploration of a pivotal movement for freedom and equality. The dedication to preserving this history is evident in every room and artifact.
Spooky Tales and Haunted History
These after-dark tours offer a different perspective on the homeplace, focusing on the macabre and mysterious aspects of its past. The atmosphere is heightened by the historical setting, creating a truly spine-chilling experience.
If you're a fan of the supernatural or simply enjoy a good ghost story, these events are a must-attend. They combine local lore with the historical ambiance of the homeplace for a memorable evening.
Community Events and Seasonal Charm
These events provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the homeplace in a lively, festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music, historical reenactments, and unique shopping opportunities, making it a perfect outing for families and individuals alike.
Seasonal events, like the Candlelight Tours during Christmas, offer a particularly magical experience, transforming the historic site into a winter wonderland. These gatherings not only celebrate the homeplace's heritage but also foster a strong sense of community connection.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit