Downing House, built in 1858, is a 14-room mansion in the Greek revival style, with a three-story tower which conveys an Italianate character. Slaves quarters were built behind the mansion. Inside Downing House, guests find Scotland County memorabilia and artifacts relating to the history of the county.During the Civil War, Union soldiers used the Downing House as their headquarters, and rode their horses in through the 10 foot doors. Prisoners were kept in the house.One of the most interesting exhibits at the Downing House is the life size model of Ella Ewing, the Missouri Giantess, who stood eight feet, four inches tall. During her adult life (she died in 1913) she was the tallest woman in the world. The room contains many personal items, including her nine-foot long iron bed, a size 24 shoe, a piano stool, gloves, jewelry and clothes.Several rooms are devoted to Scotland County history, including a vintage barber shop, Civil War relics, early aviation history, and other interesting glimpses into the past.
