Charles L. Shrewsbury House

The Charles L. Shrewsbury House is an elegant mansion built in the Greek Revival style with a symmetrical brick facade accented by stone details. The structure contains twelve rooms arranged around a central interior space, all lit by tall windows that flood each level with natural light.

Architect Francis Costigan designed the building in 1848 for Charles Shrewsbury, a businessman involved in riverboat commerce and flour milling. Shrewsbury later became mayor and played a key role in shaping the city.

The home reflects how successful merchants of the 1800s displayed their wealth and position through their living spaces. Visitors can see how rooms were organized and decorated to show status and taste.

The house is open to visitors, but it is best to check current hours ahead of time since they vary by season and may change. The interior layout is designed for leisurely exploration, so allow adequate time to view all the rooms and their furnishings.

At the center of the house stands a remarkable free-standing spiral staircase made of pine with cherry railings, engineered to support itself without any visible external supports. This feature showcases the craftsmanship and engineering skill of the period.

Location: Madison

Inception: 1848

Architects: Francis Costigan

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 38.73472,-85.38278

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:45