History of Panache at Rose Hill Panache at Rose Hill is located on the site of the plantation Rose Hill, built by Alabama's first millionaire and Montgomery county's wealthy landowner, Henry Lucas. Built in 1814, the plantation consisted of 4,000 acres, 40 of which were cultivated into rose beds. Around 1840, the stagecoach stopped here to water the horses and give the passengers a chance to stretch a bit. The Alabama State Archives mentions the fact that ladies would disembark and wander through extensive gardens and greenhouses while the gentlemen changed the horses. General LaFayette visited Rose hill in the 1820's while traveling the Federal Road (a part of which runs east and west in front of the present house). He spent the night at Lucas' Tavern, a small roadside stopover for travelers located about five miles north of the present facility. After enjoying superb Southern hospitality hosted by Eliza and Charlie Lucas, he proceeded with his entourage to the capitol, Montgomery. From there he traveled to the port city of New Orleans, located in our newest acquisition, the Louisiana Purchase.
The manor house, Rose Hill, burned shortly after the turn of the century, and the property was divided among Henry Lucas' heirs. In 1918, the present house was built on the remaining 25-plus acres by the Relfe family. Mose Smith purchased the home in 1949, and lived in it until his death at 90 years of age. Barbara Duke and Shirley Sandy purchased the house from the Smith heirs, Dr. Gwen Pearson and Dr. Mathalia Price. They purchased it with the intentions of preserving the present structure and offering fine dining and private event facilities for special occasions in an historical setting. They are enjoying their ninth year of serving the Montgomery and surrounding areas with a beautiful facility and quality upscale Southern cuisine.
Panache at Rose Hill has been placed on the Alabama Historical Register for two reasons: (1) it's architectural style, a typical Southern planters' home, and (2) the historical significance of the land.
Barbara will be pleased to share the story of the history of the house upon request.
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