Rowan Oak

About

Rowan Oak is the beloved former home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner, nestled on Old Taylor Road in Oxford, Mississippi. Built in 1844 by Irish immigrant Robert Sheegog, this primitive Greek Revival house became Faulkner's sanctuary in 1930 when he purchased the property despite its state of disrepair. He lived and wrote here until his death in 1962, and the home is now a National Literary Landmark maintained by the University of Mississippi.

Visitors step into a world that feels remarkably preserved. Faulkner's riding boots still stand near a bedroom chair. His Underwood typewriter sits ready on a desk. On the walls of his study, you can see the outline for his novel 'A Fable' written directly on the plaster in his own hand. These intimate details create an atmosphere that's equal parts museum and living memory.

The surrounding grounds include roughly 29 acres of cedar-lined paths and old-growth trees that Faulkner himself walked daily. The property features several outbuildings, a stable, and a smokehouse that round out the picture of mid-century Mississippi life. It's a peaceful place where the sounds of Oxford fade quickly into birdsong and rustling leaves.

Practical details make visiting straightforward. No reservations are needed for individual visitors or small groups. Children 12 and under get in free, as do University of Mississippi students, faculty, staff, and University Museum members. Groups of 10 or more should call 662-234-3284 or email [email protected] at least two weeks ahead to arrange a visit.

Whether you're a devoted Faulkner reader or simply someone who appreciates Southern history and architecture, Rowan Oak rewards a visit. The combination of literary significance, architectural beauty, and serene grounds makes it one of Mississippi's most meaningful cultural sites. Plan to spend at least an hour to fully take in both the house and the property.

Accessibility

Rowan Oak is a historic 1840s home, and like many preserved properties of this era, it presents certain accessibility considerations. The house itself is a two-story structure that was not originally built with modern accessibility in mind. Visitors should expect steps at the entrance and stairs between floors inside the home.

The grounds include both paved and unpaved walking paths through the 29-acre wooded property. The cedar-lined main path from the parking area to the house is relatively level but may be uneven in places due to roots and natural terrain. Gravel and dirt surfaces are common throughout the grounds, which could present challenges for wheelchair users or those with mobility aids.

The property is managed by the University of Mississippi, and staff are available during operating hours to answer questions and provide assistance. For visitors with specific accessibility needs, calling ahead at 662-234-3284 is recommended so staff can discuss current conditions and possible accommodations.

Contact the venue directly for current details about wheelchair access to the first floor, accessible restroom availability, and any recent improvements to pathways or facilities. Conditions may vary by season, and the university has been actively restoring and improving the property over the years. Visitors with sensory sensitivities will find the grounds quiet and calm, well removed from traffic and urban noise, making it a comfortable environment for those who benefit from peaceful settings.

More accessible places in Mississippi

• Square Books (Oxford)
• University of Mississippi (Oxford)
• Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site (Baldwyn)
• Gulf Islands National Seashore - Mississippi District (Ocean Springs)
• Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument (Jackson)
• Natchez National Historical Park (Natchez)