Gaineswood Plantation is a historic antebellum mansion located in Demopolis, Alabama. Built in the 1840s, the mansion is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture and is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of antebellum architecture in the United States. The mansion is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is situated on a 6-acre plot of land that includes several outbuildings and a carriage house.

The mansion was built for Nathan Bryan Whitfield, a wealthy planter who made his fortune in the cotton trade. Whitfield spared no expense in the construction of Gaineswood, which features ornate plasterwork, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful frescoes. The mansion is also notable for its innovative use of technology, including an early form of air conditioning that used a system of vents and ducts to circulate cool air through the house.

In addition to its architectural significance, Gaineswood is also known for its fascinating history. During the Civil War, the mansion was occupied by both Confederate and Union forces at different times, and it served as a hospital for wounded soldiers. The house also played a role in the civil rights movement of the 1960s, when it was the site of a protest by African American students from nearby Alabama State University.

Today, Gaineswood is open to the public and offers guided tours of the mansion and grounds. Visitors can explore the lavish interiors of the mansion, which are filled with antique furniture, artwork, and other treasures from the antebellum era. The grounds are also open to visitors and include a number of historic outbuildings, such as a slave cabin and a smokehouse. Overall, Gaineswood Plantation is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or Southern culture.