Bell House

The Bell House’s legacy began with its construction by prominent Lexingtonian David A. Sayre along with noted architect Thomas Lewinski in 1845. Lewinski also designed other recognized landmarks in the Lexington area including: Clay Villa, the reconstruction of Ashland, Cassius Clay’s White Hall and the Henry Clay monument.

Once constructed, the estate was purchased by Sayre’s business partner, Henry Bell which was passed down to his son, Davis David Bell, upon his death in 1883. It was then that the property officially became the Bell House. Sometime after the Bells’ acquisition of the estate, the home was destroyed by fire and then rebuilt in 1890 by William Stewart.

Davis David Bell died in June of 1893 and the property went to his young daughter, Clara Bell who maintained the Bell House until 1907 and owned the estate until her death in the 1950’s.

The city of Lexington then acquired the property and placed it on the National Historical Register in 1978. Bell House is currently used during the week as a Senior Citizen’s Center and often rented on the weekends as a site for weddings and other formal events and continues its tradition of class and prestige in Lexington.

Call Bell House at 233-0986 to set up a viewing time.

Bell House viewing times are available Tuesday-Friday 9am-4pm.

Today the Bell House still retains the look it did when Thomas Lewinski designed it over 150 years ago. The mansion’s combination of Greek revival, Queen Anne and Romanesque styles gives it a unique beauty and charm. From the original beautiful columns, sweeping grand staircase and hardwood floors to its beveled and stained glass, the Bell House is one-of- a-kind and the perfect location for any occasion. This historic home is the perfect location for an occasion hosting up to 150 guests or 100 seated guests, and with its sweeping grand staircase, it’s the ideal setting for gracious weddings.