The Wren’s Nest was the home of Joel Chandler Harris from 1881 until 1908, so named for the wrens that made a nest in the mailbox. Today the home features most of the Harris family’s original furniture and belongings, and is Atlanta’s oldest house museum.

The structure itself is an architectural standout, one of only a few remaining Queen Anne Victorian homes in Atlanta. It is also a unique example of upper middle class living around the turn of the 20th century.

The museum officially opened in 1913, with financial help from Andrew Carnegie and President Theodore Roosevelt. For a time the museum also served as The Uncle Remus Public Library, but the books eventually became too heavy for the floor, and the library was moved down the street.

Harris’ wife kept the author’s bedroom intact after his death, and it remains untouched to this day, aside from dusting and the occasional changing of the bed linens. The museum became a National Historic Landmark in 1962.

Harris’ fame as a result of the popularity of the Brer Rabbit tales made him a reluctant celebrity in his day. Harris was second in literary fame only to his good friend and admirer Mark Twain. Theodore Roosevelt visited the home during his trip to Atlanta, and his gift to Harris, a stuffed owl, can still be seen looking down on the family’s library.

Since its opening in 1913, the Wren’s Nest has seen ups and downs, but has been making a steady comeback since mid-2006. The Wren’s Nest strives to uphold the values of education, literacy, and storytelling espoused by Joel Chandler Harris, and participates enthusiastically in many Atlanta-area events to those ends.

For specific information on how to visit the Wren’s Nest, please see the Visit Us page. Driving directions can be found on the Contact Us page, and if you find yourself with questions after playing around with the website, please don’t hesitate to email lain@wrensnestonline.com.