The Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion was constructed by state senator Robert Jemison, Jr. between 1859-1863. This mansion was the senator's city residence and was intended to be a place for hosting important colleagues and upscale parties. The Jemisons spared no expense to create this state-of-the-art city home.  The Italianate-style house was designed by Philadelphia architect John Stewart who was in Tuscaloosa supervising the construction of Bryce Hospital. The Jemison home incorporated the latest innovations in design and technology including an elaborate plumbing system that included running water, flush toilets, and a copper bathtub; a large conservatory to be warmed by a central heating plant (which was never installed due to the Yankee blockade) and indoor lighting fueled by coal gas manufactured in a machine located in the basement.  Other modern features incorporated in the design were a boiler for producing hot water, a gas stove, an early form of “refrigerator” and a dumb waiter from the basement kitchen to the pantry located above.