Cox House (Spite House)

The story

Behind the sketch.

The Cox House was built around 1825, and is traditionally attributed to George Steele, but almost everyone remembers it by its better nickname: the "Spite House". Local lore claims its tall form was deliberately positioned to block LeRoy Pope's view, a beautifully petty explanation that is difficult to prove, and far too entertaining to discard. Whether spite truly influenced the design or not, the story reveals how Huntsville has always personalized its architecture. Buildings become characters, owners become rivals, and an unusual height or orientation invites a tale. Consider the motive folklore, but enjoy it as generations of Huntsvillians have.

Neighborhood

Twickenham

Book location

Page 67