The Carl Elliott House Museum is a historic house museum detailing the life of Congressman Carl A. Elliott, Sr. and the times in which he lived. The modest home in downtown Jasper demonstrates that a man from a ordinary or even poor background can accomplish extraordinary things.

Carl Elliott lived through many of the most tumultuous times in Alabama and American History. The Congressman introduced legislation which would change the face of education in America. He served as a trusted advisor to President Kennedy. And he fought for racial tolerance and a better quality of life in in Alabama at a time most Alabamians didn't want to listen. Despite political exile and financial ruin, Elliott continued to stand for the values he believed in, earning him international acclaim in his later life.

About Carl Elliott House Museum

The house in which Elliott lived during his adult years was built in 1913 by Jasper developer T. R. Simmons as a simple six-room bungalow. The house was purchased by the Elliott family in September 1945, just after World War II. While raising four children, the Elliott's twice expanded their home. They remodeled in 1951 and in 1963, moving the main entrance to the north side of the building and adding three rooms and a bedroom. In 1974, the home and most of downtown Jasper was severally damaged in the famous April 3rd tornado outbreak. 

After Mr. Elliott died in 1999, the house was acquired by Bevill State Community College. Under the leadership of Dr. Betsy Lavanna, grants were written to stabilize the home and develop exhibitions. In 2008, the Carl Elliott House was placed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage. It has also been included as part of the City of Jasper’s planned Historic District. 

Exhibitions in the home detail its development, the life of Carl Elliott and his family, and United States history throughout the 20th century. Important artifacts include the famous “Rules Chair” given to the Congressman by his constituents in 1961, various pieces of silver and furniture owned by the Congressman and his family, and photographs of important figures in American history during the time period. The Living Room, Kitchen, Dining Room, bedroom and office are left much as they were during the 1960s, or as the Congressman left them before his death.

We hope you will visit the museum, and learn about this fascinating character in American history. If you would like more information about Carl Elliott House Museum or to schedule a tour, please contact:

Rebecca Whitten
rwhitten@bscc.edu
205-387-0511, ext. 5718 

https://www.bscc.edu/elliott/about-the-museum.php