The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Florida
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West, Florida, was the residence of the celebrated American writer Ernest Hemingway during the 1930s. Built in 1851 in a French Colonial style by marine architect Asa Tift, the house sits on one of the highest points on the island, protected by thick limestone walls. Hemingway and his wife Pauline Pfeiffer purchased and restored the then-foreclosed property in 1931, transforming it into a secluded retreat where Hemingway wrote several acclaimed works including "Green Hills of Africa" and "To Have and Have Not." The estate is renowned for its lush tropical gardens, the first swimming pool in the Florida Keys, and its unique population of polydactyl cats descended from Hemingway's original six-toed cat. After Hemingway's death, the house was converted into a museum in 1964 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1968. Today, visitors can explore the historic rooms, gardens, and the legacy of Hemingway's life and writings in this iconic Key West landmark.
Planifiez votre voyage en États-Unis avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with walk-in visits welcome. To avoid lines, consider purchasing tickets in advance online. Visiting early in the day or later in the afternoon can provide a more peaceful experience. Don't miss the famed polydactyl cats roaming the grounds. The site offers discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the gardens and grounds.
Faits intéressants
- •The house is home to a large population of polydactyl cats, many descendants of Hemingway's original six-toed cat named Snow White.
- •The swimming pool on the property was the first in the Florida Keys and cost more than twice the purchase price of the house when built.
- •The house sits at 16 feet above sea level, making it the second-highest point on Key West.
- •Hemingway reportedly had a penny embedded in the pool's concrete after a dramatic reaction to the pool's high cost.
- •The property includes thick 18-inch limestone walls that helped protect it from tropical storms and hurricanes.
Histoire
Constructed between 1848 and 1851 by Asa Tift, the house originally served as a French Colonial estate.
Ernest Hemingway and his wife Pauline Pfeiffer purchased the property in 1931, restoring it from foreclosure and disrepair.
During their residency until 1939, Hemingway wrote several major works.
After Pauline's death in 1951 and Hemingway's suicide in 1961, the house was auctioned and converted into a museum in 1964.
It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1968, preserving its cultural and literary significance.
Guide du lieu
The Writing Studio1930s
Located in the second story of the carriage house, this studio was where Hemingway wrote many of his famous works during his residency. It offers insight into his creative process and personal workspace.
The Tropical Gardens
Surrounding the house, the gardens feature native tropical plants and are home to the famous Hemingway cats. The gardens reflect the lush environment that inspired Hemingway and provide a tranquil setting for visitors.
The Swimming Pool1937
The first swimming pool in the Florida Keys, installed by Pauline Pfeiffer in 1937, was a lavish addition to the property. Hemingway initially opposed its cost but later enjoyed swimming there, even erecting a brick wall for privacy.
The House Structure1851
Built in 1851 with 18-inch thick limestone walls and situated 16 feet above sea level, the house’s architecture reflects French Colonial style and was designed to withstand tropical storms and hurricanes.
Contact
Téléphone: (305) 294-1136
