Exploring Ivy Green in Tuscumbia: The childhood home of Helen Keller

Did you know that Helen Keller’s childhood home is open to the public for touring? Ivy Green, the Keller home, is located in Tuscumbia and offers tours 6 days out of the week.

The tour of the home offers an up-close and personal look into Helen’s childhood home, belongings, and memories. Keep reading for more information.

Ivy Green

Ivy Green, was built by Helen’s grandparents in 1820 and was eventually passed down to Helen’s father Arthur. The home was originally situated on 640 acres of land, today it sits on 10 acres. During the civil war, Arthur Keller used the home as a hospital for wounded soldiers.

Just 60 years after the home was built, Helen Keller was born in the cottage located on the property. Just 19 months later, Helen would contract the illness that left her blind and deaf. The famous water pump, where Helen learned her first word, is still on display on the property.

Touring the home

There are 3 different buildings to see when touring Ivy Green, the main home, the cottage, and the kitchen building. Majority of the furniture on display is original to the Keller family, and there are many pieces of memorabilia on display from Helen’s travels around the world.

The home was added to the National Register of Historic Sites in 1954. The home was also opened to the public in the same year. The home is available to tour Monday-Saturday 8:30AM-4:00PM. Ticket prices for the tour vary.

Helen Keller festival

During the months of June and July, right around the time of Helen’s birthday the play, The Miracle Worker, is preformed several times. Along with the play, there is also a parade and other activities to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Helen Keller during the week of the Helen Keller festival. This event typically takes place in July, and many people come out to join in on the festivities.

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