This magnificent residence, just off the southern end of Lafayette Square, was completed in 1855 by John Scudder for Catherine and John McMahon, wealthy immigrants from Ireland. 

The structure is arguably one of the best examples of the architectural transition underway in Savannah in the mid-eighteen hundreds from the Regency style, favored by architect John Jay, and the Greek Revival rapidly gaining favor.

Its form is classically Georgian, with a full front gable combined with an open staircase similar to those found at the beginning of the eighteenth century in England. The side garden is enclosed by a  Regency wall, while the side porch and the front portico, set off by square columns, are typical Greek Revival features. 

The mix of these stylistic elements and the impressive scale of the house reflect a composed elegance well suited to its location in the shadows of St John’s Cathedral which dominates Lafayette Square.

Currently a private residence which has graciously been provided for the Victorian Tea by the owners, this home is furnished with numerous eighteenth century antiques from England, Boston and New York.    

An article about the house on the internet asserts that it was initially occupied by Victoria Barie, the widow of French Counsel Louis Barie who escorted the Marquis de Lafayette during his famous visit to Savannah.

Another prominent resident was Frederick C. Baldwin, a successful photographer, who owned a studio there from 1962 to 1965. Baldwin’s photographs were seen regularly in Life, National Geographic, Sports Illustrated, and Esquire. In 1983 the Telfair Academy published his book of photographs, “We Ain't What We Used to Be” which included many images of older buildings and street views in downtown Savannah.

Renovations in 1927 and 1995, and the addition of a back deck in 2002, have kept the house up to date without compromising its historic character.