Mercer-Williams House Museum

The Mercer-Williams House: Architecture & History

The Mercer-Williams House stands as one of Savannah's most architecturally distinguished and culturally significant residences. Designed by prominent New York architect John S. Norris and completed in 1868, the Italianate mansion was commissioned by General Hugh W. Mercer, great-grandfather of celebrated songwriter Johnny Mercer (author of "Moon River"). However, financial difficulties forced General Mercer to sell the unfinished house before occupying it. The home passed through various owners until 1969, when Savannah's most famous antiques dealer, Jim Williams, purchased and meticulously restored it to become one of the city's finest house museums.

Literary Fame: Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil

International recognition came to the Mercer-Williams House through John Berendt's 1994 bestselling book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, which chronicled Jim Williams' life and the events surrounding the 1981 shooting death of Danny Hansford in the house. The book spent 216 weeks on The New York Times bestseller list—a record at the time—and transformed both the house and Savannah into international tourist destinations. The subsequent 1997 film directed by Clint Eastwood further cemented the mansion's place in popular culture. Today, the house attracts visitors worldwide curious about the setting of this true-crime saga.

Jim Williams: Antiques Dealer & Preservationist

Jim Williams (1930-1990) was Savannah's most prominent antiques dealer and preservation advocate who restored over 50 historic buildings during his career. His impeccable taste, encyclopedic knowledge of decorative arts, and perfectionist approach to restoration saved numerous endangered structures and elevated Savannah's preservation movement. The Mercer-Williams House represents his masterwork—a showcase of his collecting acumen and restoration philosophy. Williams' Christmas parties at the house were legendary social events attended by Savannah's elite and international collectors. His tragic legal battles and mysterious death added layers of intrigue to the house's history.

Italianate Architecture & Design

The Mercer-Williams House exemplifies Italianate architectural style popular in mid-19th century America:

• Red Brick Facade: Distinctive red brick exterior with decorative brickwork and arched windows
• Symmetrical Design: Balanced facade with central entrance and matching windows
• Ornate Ironwork: Elaborate cast-iron balconies and railings
• High Ceilings: Generous room heights typical of Italianate grandeur
• Monterey Square Location: Prime position on Savannah's most architecturally distinguished square
• Garden Setting: Walled garden providing private green space in urban setting

The Museum Tour Experience

Guided tours showcase the house's principal rooms and Jim Williams' extraordinary collection:

• Entrance Hall: Grand foyer setting tone with period furnishings and artwork
• Drawing Room: Formal reception room with Regency and Empire antiques
• Dining Room: Elegant space where Williams hosted legendary dinners and parties
• Music Room: Refined space displaying Williams' collection of decorative arts
• Study/Library: The room where the controversial shooting occurred, preserved as Williams arranged it
• Gallery Hall: Connecting space showcasing artwork and sculpture

The Jim Williams Collection

The house displays an extraordinary collection of 18th and 19th-century decorative arts:

• English Furniture: Georgian, Regency, and Victorian pieces of museum quality
• American Federal: Important examples of early American craftsmanship
• Continental Antiques: French and European furniture and decorative objects
• Porcelain & Ceramics: Fine china, pottery, and decorative objects
• Silver & Metalwork: English and American silver pieces
• Paintings & Prints: Period artwork complementing each room
• Decorative Arts: Clocks, mirrors, lighting fixtures carefully selected for authenticity

The Jim Williams Garden

Behind the house lies a beautifully landscaped walled garden designed by Williams himself. The garden provides tranquil green space featuring formal plantings, brick pathways, fountain, and seating areas. Seasonal blooms create changing displays throughout the year. The garden demonstrates Williams' aesthetic sensibility extending beyond interiors to outdoor spaces, creating harmonious relationship between architecture and landscape.

The Johnny Mercer Connection

Though Johnny Mercer never lived in the house, the connection to his great-grandfather General Hugh W. Mercer adds another layer of cultural significance. Johnny Mercer (1909-1976) became one of America's most beloved songwriters, composing classics including "Moon River," "Autumn Leaves," and "Days of Wine and Roses." The Mercer name links the house to Savannah's rich musical heritage and the Mercer family's contributions to American culture.

Preservation & Restoration Excellence

Jim Williams' restoration of the Mercer-Williams House set standards for historic preservation in Savannah. His approach emphasized:

• Historical Accuracy: Meticulous research ensuring period-appropriate restoration
• Structural Integrity: Addressing fundamental building issues before aesthetic concerns
• Authentic Materials: Using traditional materials and methods whenever possible
• Aesthetic Coherence: Creating harmonious interiors respecting architectural period
• Reversible Interventions: Making changes that could be undone without damaging original fabric

Monterey Square Context

The house's location on Monterey Square places it within one of Savannah's most beautiful and historically significant public spaces. The square, laid out in 1847, features the Casimir Pulaski monument honoring the Polish count who died defending Savannah during the Revolutionary War. Surrounding the square are other magnificent homes, Temple Mickve Israel, and mature oak trees creating one of the city's most photographed settings. The square itself is worth extended exploration before or after touring the house.

Photography & Tour Guidelines

Important information for visitors:

• No Interior Photography: Photography prohibited inside the house to protect collection and privacy
• Exterior Photography Welcome: Facade and garden may be photographed from public spaces
• Age Restrictions: Children under 6 not permitted due to museum environment
• Guided Tours Only: House accessible only through scheduled guided tours
• Limited Group Size: Tours limited to maintain intimate experience
• Private Residence: Upper floors remain private family residence, not open to tours

Cultural Tourism & Savannah Renaissance

The success of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil transformed Savannah's tourism industry and accelerated the city's cultural renaissance. The book and subsequent film drew international attention to Savannah's architecture, history, and distinctive character. The Mercer-Williams House became pilgrimage site for readers and film enthusiasts, demonstrating how literature can spotlight historic preservation and cultural heritage. The book's impact extends beyond tourism, fostering pride among Savannahians and elevating the city's profile as arts and culture destination.

Planning Your House Tour

To maximize your Mercer-Williams House experience:

• Book Ahead: Tours can sell out during peak tourist seasons; advance tickets recommended
• Read the Book: Familiarity with Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil enriches the experience
• Allow Extra Time: Arrive early to explore Monterey Square and photograph exterior
• Ask Questions: Knowledgeable guides welcome questions about house, Williams, and book
• Visit Nearby Attractions: Combine with Temple Mickve Israel and other historic district sites
• Respect Guidelines: Observe photography restrictions and preserve museum environment

Midnight Tour Trail

The Mercer-Williams House anchors broader literary tourism exploring Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil locations throughout Savannah. Other notable sites include Bonaventure Cemetery (featured prominently in the book), Club One (where Lady Chablis performed), Monterey Square itself, and various locations mentioned in the narrative. Several tour companies offer themed tours connecting book locations with Savannah history.

Pairing House Tour with Theatre Evening

The Mercer-Williams House provides excellent afternoon cultural enrichment before evening theatre. Tour the house, explore Monterey Square and surrounding historic district, enjoy early dinner at nearby restaurant, then attend New Oak Theatre performance. The combination creates comprehensive artistic day—historic house museum complementing live theatrical performance. Jim Williams' legendary entertaining spirit connects naturally to appreciation for performing arts.