Wow What a sight This is the Rufus M Rose House.
This magnificent late Victorian Queen Anne style house stands proudly on Peachtree Street. It’s a true gem a rare survivor from Atlanta’s residential past. Built in 1901 for Dr Rufus Mathewson Rose it boasts an impressive 5200 square feet.
Dr Rose wasn’t just any Atlantan. He was a prominent figure. A former druggist and Civil War doctor he founded the R M Rose Co Distillery. He also owned a thriving real estate business. The Rose family called this house home until 1921.
After the Rose family sold the house it had many lives. It served as a private residence a rooming house and even offices for the Fulton County Relief Administration. Then came a fascinating chapter.
In 1945 James H Elliot Sr bought the house. He transformed it into J H Elliot’s Antiques and the Atlanta Museum. Can you imagine? It housed Margaret Mitchell’s furniture Bobby Jones’ personal items and even Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie’s throne. Talk about a unique collection. A Japanese Zero war plane was there too! The museum remained open for over 50 years finally closing in 1998.
The Atlanta Preservation Center then made it their headquarters. They stayed until 2001. Then the house stood vacant for many years.
Through the years the Rufus M Rose House faced challenges. It was neglected. It even went through several sales. Yet it stood strong. In 2021 UC Asset an Atlanta real estate firm bought it. Renovations began.
Today the Rufus M Rose House is a testament to Atlanta’s rich history. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also designated a Landmark Building. It’s a reminder of the city’s past and a symbol of hope for its future. The house’s story continues to unfold. Its future is uncertain but its remarkable past is undeniable. We’re standing here today before a piece of living history a true icon of Atlanta.