Manor House, 1869
Log Cabin, c.1785
Federal Plainstyle House, c.1790
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Callaway Plantation is a historic restoration project of the City of Washington. History is brought back to life for those who visit the three restored homes, structures, farm and fields.
The great manor house, built of red brick made at the site and designed in the Greek Revival style, was constructed in 1869. The mansion was the focal point of a 3,000 acre cotton plantation that stretched as far as the eye could see in all directions. The home remains virtually unaltered. The doors, mantels and most of the plaster are original and have survived in remarkably good condition.
Each room is furnished with excellent examples of period furniture. Connected to the rear of the mansion by a breezeway is a self-contained brick kitchen. It is equipped much as it was when the plantation was at its zenith.
The oldest building in the complex, the hewn log cabin, most likely an early settler's first home, was constructed around 1785. It contains many early domestic and agricultural tools as well as primitive furniture.
The interior of the log cabin consists of a single room with a fireplace for heating and cooking and a table for preparing food, eating and a myriad of other activities necessary to the survival of the early settlers.
As the settler's economic situation improved, they abandoned their log cabin for a more spacious home, the Federal Plainstyle house, and then used the cabin as a kitchen. This two-story, four room plainstyle house contains furnishings typical of the 1790's including a loom.
A smokehouse, pigeon house, barn and cemetery are among other structures to be found on the site.
The Gilmer House, built in 1800 and located on lands adjacent to Callaway Plantation, is the boyhood home of George R. Gilmer who served as Georgia's governor from 1827 to 1831 and from 1837 to 1839.
Callaway Plantation is unique because it has been in the control of the same family since the arrival of the settlers in the late 18th century. It has passed from one generation to another by inheritance. The family still owns all the land that surrounds the 56 acre core which was given to the City of Washington. Much family furniture and equipment has been saved and is on display.
Special Events
Mule Day - October
Christmas at Callaway - first weekend in December
Experience Christmas decorations and activities of the Old South
Location
5 miles west of Washington on US 78
Across from the Washington-Wilkes Airport
Washington, Georgia 30673
(706) 678-7060
Hours
Open Tues. - Sat. 10-5, Sun. 2-5
Closed on Mondays and Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
Cost
$4.00 ages 13-adult, $1 ages 6-12, free ages 5 and under
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