Cannonball House

Nestled in the heart of Macon, Georgia, the Cannonball House stands as a timeless testament to the antebellum South's architectural elegance and the poignant history of the American Civil War. This Greek Revival masterpiece, located at 856 Mulberry Street, is not just a historic house but a living museum that transports visitors to a bygone era, filled with stories of resilience, heritage, and Southern charm.

The History of the Cannonball House

The Cannonball House was built in 1853 as a planter's townhouse for Judge Asa Holt. Its architectural style, characterized by grand columns and symmetrical design, reflects the Greek Revival trend that was popular in the United States during the mid-19th century. However, what truly sets this house apart is the dramatic event that gave it its name. On July 30, 1864, during the Battle of Dunlap Hill, a Union Army cannonball struck the house. The cannonball, fired from across the Ocmulgee River, hit the sand sidewalk, bounced into the left middle column of the house's front facade, and passed through a parlor before coming to rest in the interior hallway. Remarkably, no one was injured, but the house has since been known as the Cannonball House, the only home in Macon to sustain damage during the Civil War.

Judge Asa Holt and his family resided in the house during the Civil War, and the property remained in the family until 1962. Faced with the threat of demolition for a parking lot, the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC) purchased the house from Miss Elizabeth Martin, the last family member to reside there. The UDC not only preserved the house but also transformed it into a museum, with Miss Martin becoming its first tour guide, living in an upstairs apartment.

Exploring the Cannonball House

Today, the Cannonball House is owned and operated by The Friends of the Cannonball House, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Macon's architectural and cultural heritage. Visitors to the house are treated to a comprehensive tour that showcases the elegance and history of the antebellum period through the reconstruction era.

As you step through the front door, you are immediately transported back in time. The house is furnished with period pieces from 1853 to 1870, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of a Southern planter's family. The parlor, where the cannonball once passed through, holds original furnishings and artifacts from the era, including items from the world's first female college, Wesleyan College.

Collections and Exhibits

The Cannonball House boasts several significant collections that are sure to captivate history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. These collections include artifacts from the Adelphean Society (now known as Alpha Delta Pi), the Philomathean Society (now known as Phi Mu), and an impressive array of Civil War memorabilia.

Adelphean and Philomathean Collections

The Adelphean and Philomathean collections are particularly noteworthy. The Adelphean Society, the first national collegiate women's society, has its original furnishings, window treatments, and a marble mantel displayed in the house's parlor. Similarly, the Philomathean collection includes window treatments, furniture, and another marble mantel, all of which provide a fascinating insight into the early days of these pioneering women's societies.

Civil War Collection

The Civil War collection is another highlight of the Cannonball House. This exhibit features Georgian officers' uniforms, weapons used during the war, and company flags, including the Jackson Artillery Flag. One of the standout pieces is the jacket of Richmond Depot Type II, a rare and valuable artifact that offers a tangible connection to the soldiers who fought in the war.

General Museum Collection

The general museum collection includes a rotating display of textiles and period clothing, such as quilts handmade between 1850 and 1920, nineteenth-century wedding dresses, original day dresses, and children's clothing. These fragile items are carefully preserved and periodically rotated to ensure their longevity.

Servant's Quarters

At the rear of the house, visitors can explore the hand-molded two-story brick kitchen and the servants' quarters on the upper level. This area of the house is a rare and well-preserved example of such structures in the Southern United States. The collection in the servants' quarters includes two beds, trunks, spinning wheels, a wardrobe, straight chairs, a weasel, a pie safe, a grain bin, and even a bathtub, providing a comprehensive view of the daily lives of the servants who worked in the house.

The Garden and Gift Shop

After touring the house, visitors can stroll through the beautifully maintained garden, which offers a serene and picturesque setting. The garden is also home to a bronze cannon forged at the Macon Arsenal in 1864, a fitting tribute to the house's storied past. Before leaving, be sure to visit the gift shop, where you can find unique souvenirs and books that delve deeper into the history of the Cannonball House and Macon.

In conclusion, the Cannonball House is more than just a historic building; it is a vibrant museum that brings the past to life. Whether you are a history buff, a student of architecture, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to the Cannonball House offers a rich and rewarding experience. Its walls echo with the stories of those who lived through one of the most tumultuous periods in American history, making it a must-see destination in Macon, Georgia.