What is the historic mansion in Athens, Alabama, and who built it?

The historic mansion in Athens, Alabama is the Pope's Tavern Museum, which was built in 1811. It is a two-story brick building that was originally a tavern, but later served as a hospital during the Civil War. The building was purchased by the city of Athens in 1965 and restored to its original condition, and it now serves as a museum and event venue.

The tavern was built by John M. Pope, a veteran of the Revolutionary War, who settled in Athens in the early 1800s. The tavern was a popular stop for travelers, and it is said that Andrew Jackson stayed there during his presidential campaign in 1820. During the Civil War, the tavern was used as a hospital by both Union and Confederate forces, and it is believed that soldiers from both sides died there. The building was later used as a residence and as a funeral home before being purchased by the city of Athens.