To prevent its destruction, the Barnes Family Foundation recently purchased a historic home that originally belonged to Sister's family. The Henderson House, built in 1867, was registered with the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The foundation has carefully overseen the renovation and restoration of this home, being very mindful to keep true to the period of the house through cosmetic and architectural improvements.

The stately structure sits on a lush green lawn surrounded by dogwood, sweet gum and pecan trees. The extensive gardens are shaded by a 90-year-old oak tree and have been replanted with favorites of the original period including: kiss-me-at-the-gate, hydrangeas, crape myrtles, azaleas, lilies, roses, and the oldest species of camellia in Alabama, the Woodville Red. The house itself, with original hardwood floors and cabinetry, contains three bedroom suites with names inspired by favorites from the garden. The first two are named after beautiful old-fashioned camellias: the "Woodville Red" and "White Empress." The third is called "Kiss-Me-at-the-Gate" after the sweet-smelling shrub in the back garden.

Although much attention has been given to preserving the original flavor of the home, there are also some modern amenities like the built-in cappuccino machine. Beautifully detailed, furnished with antiques and carefully chosen art, and supplied with luxurious linens and accoutrements, the Henderson House offers a unique opportunity to enjoy hospitality reminiscent of the Old South along with modern comfort and convenience. 

Upon entering the front parlor, guests are greeted by the epitome of Victorian elegance punctuated by a high relief plaque of cherubs at play over the fireplace mantel. The coffered ceiling, chandelier and matching mantel sconces add a touch of drama to this warm, welcoming room. Nearly every room features a fireplace, and true to Southern sensibilities, there are three porches: the inviting front porch with its wicker swing, rocking chairs and potted ferns; the back porch overlooking the garden with its alfresco dining table; and the wonderful lofty upstairs porch just off the bedroom hall.

Jeremiah Augustus Henderson built the nearly 6,000-square-foot house for his wife, Millie Henderson, in the 19th century. Today the house is as hospitable as it was in Millie's day. Jeremiah constructed it of wood lath with heart pine floors and magnificent moldings throughout. The Henderson family history is woven tightly into the history of their city and state. Their son, Charles Henderson, went on to become governor of Alabama. He had no children, so upon his death, he bequeathed the bulk of his estate to a trust established to care for the children of Pike County. As a result, the Charles Henderson Middle School, Charles Henderson High School and Charles Henderson Child Health Center have been established in his memory.

The Henderson family, originally from the Fife region of Scotland, have been influential citizens of Troy, Alabama, contributing the oldest business in the city, Henderson Black & Green, and establishing the first bank, Troy Bank and Trust. Now the Henderson House will not only serve to preserve history and contribute to the rich culture of the community, but will also provide a unique opportunity for friends of the Barnes Family Foundation to experience this unique piece of history.

Lesa Wood, chatelaine of the Henderson House, lives in the private quarters redesigned from the original gentlemen's parlor. She is a Fulbright Scholar who spent a year teaching British Literature in Romania. Her love for history and culture contributes to her appreciation and care of the antique pieces found throughout the house. These pieces include an 18th century Parisian mantel and an English oak kitchen table that comes from the Naval Academy in Great Britain. Original photos of the Henderson family adorn the halls throughout the home, adding a personal touch and displaying the historical connection through the generations.

Sister says, "The thread that connects us to the past wraps around you and goes to the next thing. We are connected. That is our legacy." Sister recognizes her role in preserving the past while at the same time embracing the future. She says, "History is like a play—we are the actors. Each generation plays its part and we move on to the next scene."