Ivy Green is a historic site located in Tuscumbia, Alabama, and is the birthplace of Helen Keller, a renowned American author, political activist, and lecturer. The site is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can tour the restored birthplace cottage and the surrounding gardens. The cottage is furnished with period pieces and provides a glimpse into life in rural Alabama during the late 19th century.

The birthplace cottage is the centerpiece of Ivy Green and is a significant part of Helen Keller’s life story. Keller was born in the cottage in 1880 and lived there with her family until she was seven years old. The cottage is a simple, two-room structure with a central fireplace that served as the family’s main source of heat and cooking. Visitors can see the original well pump, the outdoor kitchen, and other artifacts from Keller’s early years.

In addition to the birthplace cottage, Ivy Green also features a museum that houses a collection of artifacts related to Helen Keller’s life and achievements. The museum includes exhibits on Keller’s education, her work as a political activist and lecturer, and her lifelong friendship with her teacher, Anne Sullivan. Visitors can also see memorabilia from Keller’s travels around the world, including letters, photographs, and souvenirs.

The gardens at Ivy Green are another highlight of the site. Visitors can stroll through the grounds and see a variety of native Alabama plants, including magnolias, azaleas, and dogwoods. The gardens also feature a water fountain, a statue of Helen Keller, and a replica of the well house where Keller first learned to communicate with Sullivan. Ivy Green is an important part of Alabama’s history and a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the life and legacy of Helen Keller.