Casares

What is Casares?

Casares is a historic residence located in the heart of Anniston, Alabama. Built in 1892, the two‑story brick home exemplifies the Queen Anne style that was popular in the post‑Reconstruction South. Today, the property operates as a small museum and community event space, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of Anniston’s early industrial elite.

Why Visit Casares?

• Authentic Queen Anne architecture with original woodwork, stained glass, and wrap‑around porch.
• Period furnishings and rotating exhibits that illustrate Anniston’s growth as a railroad hub.
• Peaceful garden featuring native plants and a historic carriage house.
• Free admission makes it an accessible cultural stop for families and solo travelers.

Historical Background

The house was commissioned by José Casares, a Spanish‑born entrepreneur who helped establish the local iron‑foundry industry. Casares and his family lived there until the 1940s, when the property was donated to the city. A local preservation society restored the building in the 1990s, returning original details that had been altered over the decades. The site is listed on the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage.

Top Highlights

• Grand Front Porch: Perfect for photos, with original turned columns and a decorative balustrade.
• Stained‑Glass Windows: Depicting floral motifs and the Casares family crest.
• Original Hardwood Floors: Restored to their 19th‑century sheen.
• Carriage House: Now a small exhibit on transportation history.
• Gardens: Seasonal blooms and a historic fountain provide a quiet retreat.

Best Time to Visit

The house is open year‑round, but the garden is most vibrant in late spring (April‑May) and early fall (September‑October). Summer afternoons can be warm, so early morning or late‑afternoon visits are comfortable. Winter brings fewer crowds, allowing a more relaxed tour.

Opening Hours

Casares welcomes visitors Monday‑Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, and is closed on Sundays and major holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving, Christmas). The last entry is 30 minutes before closing.

Ticket Price

Free entry for all visitors. Guided tours are offered on Saturdays at no extra charge, though donations are appreciated.

How to Reach Casares

Casares sits at 212 East 4th Street, within walking distance of Anniston’s downtown district. From the Anniston Regional Airport (ANB), take a taxi or rideshare (≈15 minutes). The Anniston Amtrak station is a 10‑minute walk, and local bus route 3 stops two blocks away.

Average Visit Duration

Most guests spend 1–1.5 hours exploring the house and garden. Guided tours add about 30 minutes.

Visitor Tips

• Arrive early on Saturdays for the guided tour; space is limited.
• Wear comfortable shoes—some rooms have uneven wooden floors.
• Bring a light jacket in spring or fall; the porch can be breezy.
• Photography is permitted in most areas, but avoid flash near the stained‑glass windows.
• Check the city’s events calendar; Casares often hosts local art shows and historic talks.

Nearby Attractions

• Anniston Museum of Natural History – 0.6 mi, 5‑minute walk; offers interactive exhibits on regional geology and wildlife.
• Cheaha State Park – 30 mi north; Alabama’s highest point with hiking trails and scenic vistas.
• Historic Berman Street – 0.4 mi; lined with boutique shops and cafés.
• Anniston Army Depot Heritage Center – 2 mi; showcases military engineering history.

Is Casares Worth Visiting?

For travelers interested in Southern architecture, industrial heritage, or a quiet cultural stop, Casares offers an authentic, free‑of‑charge experience that captures Anniston’s historic charm. Families, history buffs, and photographers will find plenty to enjoy.