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Hostess City History: The Kehoe House

Located on Habersham Street at Columbia Square sits an architectural marvel dating back to the Victorian era. This marvel is the Kehoe House, which operates today as an opulent B&B, complete with 13 luxurious guest rooms and several balconies. 

The Kehoe House was originally constructed in 1892 by William Kehoe, a successful iron foundry owner. He emigrated with his family from Ireland in 1842 at the age of 10. They settled in Savannah’s Old Fort District with the Irish community there. Kehoe secured an apprenticeship in an iron foundry, working his way up to foreman, and eventually, to owner. 

Kehoe married in 1868 and had ten children with his wife Anne Flood. He built their first home at 130 Habersham Street in Columbia Square in 1885. Then he had their second home, The Kehoe House, built seven years later at 123 Habersham Street. 

The Kehoe House was designed by architect DeWitt Bruyn and cost $25,000 to build. The house remained in the Kehoe family until 1930 when it was sold by heirs. From there, the edifice was used as a boarding house and a funeral home. It was eventually acquired by former football star Joe Namath, who sold the property in 1990. 

After a two-year renovation, the site opened as a historic inn called The William Kehoe House. It sold once more in 2003, and is currently owned by HLC Hotels. Today, The Kehoe House continues to amaze guests with its rich history, well-preserved architecture, and luxe interior. Consider planning a stay there soon.