Between 1843 and 1861, Nathan Bryan Whitfield transformed a dogtrot cabin into what we know as Gaineswood. Whitfield was his own designer, taking ideas from architectural books of the day and from his travels. His son Bryan Watkins Whitfield helped in the development of Gaineswood, ordering mantels from Philadelphia, and designing and fabricating the circular observatory known as"The Ring". Skilled enslaved and free African-American workers did most of the work on the house, along with itinerant artists. John Gibson, who designed stained glass for the US Capitol, designed art glass transoms depicting classical scenes. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974, the site is owned by the Alabama Historical Commission and is currently operated by the Friends of Gaineswood. Restored to its 1861 appearance, Gaineswood is filled with original furnishings.