The History: Ramble returns to Newnan
Pictured above is the McRitchie-Hollis Museum.
By JENNY ENDERLIN, Newnan-Coweta Historical Society
The Georgia Preservation Trust (GPT) is returning to Newnan for the first time in nearly 15 years for its Fall Ramble. Twice a year, the preservation group chooses a different locale in Georgia for hundreds of historic architecture enthusiasts to tour structures ranging from dilapidated shacks to fully renovated mansions.
Local GPT member Robert Hancock has arranged dozens of locations in Coweta County to be available for viewing Oct. 14-15. On Sunday, Oct. 16, the fall Ramble will move to Chattahoochee Hills and feature Cherry Hollow Farm, Muscadine Manor, the 16-acre John H. Beavers House, and a Q&A at the Farmhouse Restaurant with Serenbe founder Steve Nygren.
Throughout the weekend, tour goers will experience local architecture in an itinerary of their choosing. Available sites include the rural Swope Farmhouse built in 1836, the meticulously restored downtown antebellum Dent-Walls-Strain home, 38 College Street, whose impressive decor was conceived by Elton John’s interior designer, unpainted log cabins set deep in the woods, and former plantations with onsite cemeteries. In attendance at the Fitzgibbons farm will be the great-great grandson of Senator and Colonel Watkins who built the antebellum home; his descendent will bring original maps and letters belonging to his ancestor for display.
Friday’s tour begins at the Newnan-Coweta Historical Society’s McRitchie-Hollis Museum located at 74 Jackson Street. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Ramblers will receive a tour of the 1937 house-turned-museum before setting off to visit homes located primarily in the downtown districts. That evening, early ticket purchasers will converge at the Newnan Historic Train Depot to enjoy cocktails and dinner.
On Saturday, packets can be picked up at Central Baptist Church from 8-10 a.m. and Carl Miller Park from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meal options are available and early ticket purchasers can opt to partake in the dinner held at the University of West Georgia Newnan Campus, which was formerly Newnan Hospital.
High level members also have the opportunity to attend a complimentary Heritage Reception at the Boyd Gallery, enjoying cocktails in the presence of original artwork by renowned painter David Boyd Jr. and his late father David Boyd Sr. who is known for his Jeff Foxworthy “redneck” art.
Tickets range from $130 to $290 as there are several different packages from which to choose. They can be purchased at www.georgiatrust.org.
