The Blount-Bridgers House is a Federal style plantation house built c. 1808 by Thomas Blount, a prominent Edgecombe County businessman and
United States Congressman. "The Grove," as it was known then, was built on a 296 acre tract of land purchased in 1795.

It is a handsome two-story house consisting of five bays with a gable roof, central doorways front and back, shuttered windows of nine-over-nine
sash, modillion cornice and double beaded weatherboarding and two pairs of double-shoulder Flemish bond chimneys on each end, prettily
centered by fanlight windows in the attic. The house has been home to some of Tarboro's finest citizens through the years. Thomas Blount
occupied the house from 1808-1812, Louis Dicken Wilson from 1831-1847, and Col. John Luther Bridgers, CSA from 1850-1880. The beautiful
Italianate shed porch was added in 1850 when Col. Bridgers purchased the House.

In the early 20th century the Town of Tarboro purchased the house, using it as a Community House. It served a number of purposes through the
years, including public library, dance studio and central office for the public school system. In 1979 the House was adaptively restored and turned
into a museum. Today, the first floor is home to a collection of 19th century furniture, furnishing and Edgecombe County memorabilia. Visitors can
learn about the history of the Town, the County and the House itself. The second floor houses the beautiful Hobson Pittman Memorial Gallery and
a living museum to Pittman, Edgecombe County's premier artist (1899-1972). Here, visitors can enjoy the permanent Hobson Pittman Collection of
20th century artwork, as well as exhibits from local, regional, national and international artists. Tours are free for County residents. Donation
requested from others. All exhibit areas handicapped accessible, wheelchair available. Self-guided Walking Tour Map of Tarboro's historic district
available. Group and guided tours available. In-house library available for research. The Blount-Bridgers House and Hobson Pittman Memorial
Gallery are one of Historic Tarboro's sites on the Historic Albemarle Tour.


Address
130 Bridgers St.
Tarboro, NC 27886

URL:
www.edgecombearts.org/bbh.htm

Email:
edgecombearts@earthlink.net


Telephone Number(s)
Business: (252)823-4159
Fax : (252)823-6190
All photographs on this site were taken by Jennifer Price.  Before copying any picture, please contact Jennifer for permission.