Nestled in the vibrant heart of Key West, Florida, the Ernest Hemingway House stands as a testament to the life and works of one of America's most celebrated authors. This historic residence, located at 907 Whitehead Street, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the world of Ernest Hemingway, his literary legacy, and his adventurous spirit. With its lush gardens, charming architecture, and intriguing history, the Hemingway House is a must-see destination for literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
The story of the Ernest Hemingway House begins long before the author himself set foot on the island. Constructed in 1851 by Asa Tift, a marine architect and salvage wrecker, the house was built in a distinctive French Colonial style. Its location, just across from the Key West Lighthouse, provides a picturesque setting, and its elevation of 16 feet above sea level makes it one of the highest points on the island, offering protection from tropical storms and hurricanes.
Ernest Hemingway and his second wife, Pauline Pfeiffer, moved to Key West in 1928. After three years of renting various homes, they discovered the dilapidated mansion at 907 Whitehead Street. Despite Pauline's initial reservations, she saw the potential in the property and convinced her wealthy uncle to purchase it for $8,000 as a wedding gift. With the help of local laborers, the Hemingways restored the house, transforming it into a comfortable and stylish home.
During his time at the Key West residence, Hemingway produced some of his most acclaimed works. The tranquil and secluded environment of the house allowed him to focus on his writing. In the second-story writing studio, a converted carriage house, Hemingway penned classics such as Green Hills of Africa, The Snows of Kilimanjaro, The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber, and To Have and Have Not. The studio remains a focal point of the house, offering visitors a glimpse into the space where literary magic happened.
Pauline Pfeiffer played a significant role in the home's interior design, selecting most of the furnishings and adding her own touches, such as replacing ceiling fans with elegant chandeliers. Hemingway, however, insisted on the inclusion of his hunting trophies, which still adorn the walls today. The couple's efforts to restore and personalize the house have left a lasting legacy, making it a true reflection of their lives and tastes.
One of the most notable additions to the Hemingway House is the expansive swimming pool, the first of its kind in the Florida Keys. While Hemingway was in Spain reporting on the Spanish Civil War, Pauline undertook the ambitious project of installing the pool. The 24 x 60-foot pool, filled with 80,000 gallons of water, cost a staggering $20,000—two and a half times the purchase price of the entire property.
Upon his return, Hemingway was initially furious about the expense. In a dramatic gesture, he threw a penny onto the ground, declaring, You might as well take my last cent. Pauline kept the penny and later embedded it in the concrete by the pool, where it remains today, a symbol of their passionate and sometimes tumultuous relationship. Despite his initial anger, Hemingway grew to love the pool and even had a six-foot brick wall built around the property for privacy, allowing him to swim nude.
Another unique feature of the Hemingway House is its population of polydactyl cats, often referred to as Hemingway cats. These six-toed felines are said to be descendants of Snow White, a cat given to Hemingway by a sea captain. Today, the house is home to dozens of these unique cats, each named after a famous celebrity. The cats have their own cemetery in the garden, adding to the property's charm and character.
The presence of these cats has not been without controversy. In 2003, the museum became embroiled in a legal battle with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) over whether the Animal Welfare Act applied to the cats. After a nine-year struggle, the court ruled that the act was applicable, but the museum continues to care for its feline residents, ensuring they remain happy and healthy.
Today, the Ernest Hemingway House operates as a museum, attracting visitors from around the world. The house and its grounds have been meticulously preserved, offering a window into the past. While much of the original furniture is no longer present, the museum still houses many of Hemingway's personal belongings and artifacts, providing an authentic experience.
Visitors can explore the various rooms of the house, including the living quarters, the writing studio, and the lush gardens. The house's thick limestone walls, elegant verandas, and vibrant greenery create a serene and inviting atmosphere. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into Hemingway's life, his writing process, and his time in Key West.
In 1968, the Ernest Hemingway House was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its significance in American literary and cultural history. The house's enduring popularity is a testament to Hemingway's lasting impact on literature and his adventurous spirit. Whether you're a devoted fan of his work or simply curious about his life, a visit to the Hemingway House offers a captivating journey through the world of one of America's greatest writers.
In conclusion, the Ernest Hemingway House in Key West is more than just a historic residence; it's a living tribute to a literary legend. Its rich history, beautiful architecture, and unique features make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Florida Keys. As you walk through the halls where Hemingway once lived and wrote, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for his genius and the indelible mark he left on the world of literature.
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