George W. Hubbard House

Built by the McKissack firm, this home was a tribute to Dr. George W. Hubbard, whose leadership at Meharry Medical College transformed medical education for African Americans. Alumni and trustees raised $17,000 to fund its construction upon his retirement in 1921.

Hubbard’s journey began in New Hampshire, but it was his experiences during the Civil War that ignited his passion for Black education. In 1864, he volunteered as a delegate and missionary chaplain for the U.S. Christian Commission. In many ways, Hubbard was the Forrest Gump of the Civil War. From the front lines of Grant’s Army of the Potomac to Sherman’s siege of Atlanta—Hubbard was part of several major campaigns.

After the war, Dr. Hubbard taught at Nashville’s First Colored Baptist Church, worked with the Freedmen’s Aid Society, and later earned a medical degree from Vanderbilt University in 1879. While still a student, he helped establish the Meharry Medical Department at Central Tennessee College in 1876, leading the institution to independence in 1915. Under his tenure, Meharry grew into a major force in medical training, including the founding of Hubbard Hospital in 1912.

Architecturally, the Hubbard House is a striking Colonial Revival Four-Square residence. The red brick structure features a hipped roof, six-over-six sash windows, a fanlight-framed entrance, and a grand front porch with Doric columns. As the last remaining structure from Meharry’s original campus, it stands as a testament to its early legacy.

Hubbard’s 45-year presidency cemented Meharry’s role as a leading producer of Black physicians, dentists, and nurses—a legacy that endures today. Upon his retirement in 1921, Hubbard became the first president emeritus of the college. Meharry's students and alumnae presented George and his wife, Sarah, with this residence on the original Meharry Medical College. To learn more about this trailblazing medical school, take our Fisk and Meharry walking tour, located in North Nashville.

Our last tour stop is optional and travels to the Edgehill neighborhood to see Moses McKissack III’s family residence. But whether you drive to Edgehill or head to your final destination, we encourage you to listen to the last stop and the tour’s conclusion.

To reach 1503 Edgehill Avenue, turn RIGHT onto Chestnut St. Follow Chestnut approximately 2 miles. The road becomes Edgehill Ave. after you cross over I-65 and 8th Ave S. You can find street parking near the house along Edgehill or 15th Ave S. Look for the historical marker in the front yard.