Virtual Tour
The Ferguson Mansion has been The Filson Historical Society's headquarters since 1986. Designed by the architectural firm of Dodd and Cobb and completed in 1905, the Ferguson mansion is one of the finest examples of Beaux Arts architecture in Louisville. Built for industrialist Edwin Hite Ferguson, it showcased his success and family's social status. Sold to the Pearson family in the 1920s, the mansion was a funeral home for almost half a century. After passing through two other owners, The Filson purchased the mansion and accompanying carriage house in 1984. Renovation and a stacks addition for the society's collection were completed in spring 1986. Both beautiful and functional, the Ferguson has been a wonderful home for The Filson and, in turn, by owning this historic property The Filson is assuring its preservation.
Enjoy the virtual tour of The Filson and Ferguson Mansion by clicking on the numbered boxes. For additional images with more detailed description click here.
The mansion was one of the most ornate homes in Louisville, taking four years to build
The mansion was home to the Ferguson family and six servants.
The dining room is surrounded by a mural depicting German folk tale "Der Freischutz".
The Filson houses Kentucky's largest collection of Antebellum portraiture.
The sideboard and dining room table are original furnishings to the mansion.
Sideboard detail
This glass-tiled fireplace was designed by Orlando Giannini of Chicago.
The Ferguson's library features built-in bookcases and custom Tiffany lamps.
This French hand-carved stone mantle commemorates the Fergusons' 1898 marriage.
Mantle detail
The quartersawn oak-paneled lobby was the site of Margaret Ferguson's wedding.
Antique longcase clock located in the Filson library
Detail of clock face
A meeting room on the second floor serves as both a lecture hall and exhibit area.
The Ferguson carriage house now serves as The Filson's museum.
Tree trunk revealing the alleged carving, "D. Boone, kill a bar, 1803."
Museum display on Kentucky pioneers featuring Clark family artifacts.
Mid-nineteenth century hand-drawn fire engine.
Museum display depicting a nineteenth century Shaker community interior.
Slave artifact display including medicine scales and plantation horn for communication.
Museum exhibit regarding the Civil War in Kentucky.
Uniform of Union Captain Alfred Pirtle.
