Haywood Hallhouse and Gardens, Raleigh

Nestled in the heart of Raleigh, Haywood Hallhouse and Gardens stands as a poignant testament to the power of love and devotion to shape not only personal destinies but also the very landscape that surrounds us. This historic landmark weaves a tale of a man's unwavering commitment to his wife, and the profound impact that a woman's creative touch can have on a place.

The Hallhouse, a splendid creation, owes its existence to the visionary Treasurer John Haywood. Fueled by an earnest desire to persuade his wife Elizabeth, affectionately known as Eliza, to embrace their life in the capital city, he embarked on an architectural endeavor that would come to define their legacy. The Hallhouse emerged as a manifestation of his deep love and a testament to what men are capable of doing for the women who hold their hearts.

Eliza, a woman of creative spirit and boundless enthusiasm, initially found the capital city less than enchanting. Yet, her husband's steadfast love and his architectural gift began to reshape her perception. What initially seemed unfamiliar and distant soon transformed into a canvas upon which Eliza could weave her own magic.

Her passion for gardening became the catalyst for an enchanting metamorphosis of the surroundings. A once ordinary space blossomed into a symphony of colors and fragrances, each petal and leaf telling a story of love and transformation. A testament to their love and her own creativity, Eliza had a gazebo erected on the property. The gazebo became a sanctuary, a physical embodiment of the love that infused every corner of Haywood Hallhouse and Gardens.

Today, the gardens remain a place of wonder and inspiration, open for all to experience year-round. Visitors are invited to step into a world where the past and present coalesce—a space where John Haywood's affection and Eliza's creative prowess continue to resonate through the petals and pathways.

Guided tours at the property are held the second and forth Thursday of each month. Group tours by appointment only.