From Ruins to Restoration: The Transformation of the Rockwell House in Milledgeville, Georgia

402 Allen Memorial Dr SW, Milledgeville, GA 31061

The history of the Samuel Rockwell House dates back to 1838 when it was constructed for Colonel Samuel Rockwell by architect Joseph Lane. The house is built in the Greek Revival style, characterized by its symmetrical design, grand columns, and imposing facade. After Rockwell’s passing in 1841, the mansion was purchased by Governor Herschel Johnson in 1850 and used as his summer home. Over the years, the Samuel Rockwell House witnessed numerous changes in ownership. It underwent several renovations to adapt to the evolving needs of its inhabitants, even surviving a fire in 1969 that damaged the roof and upstairs rooms. After decades of sitting in neglect, the Rockwell House was purchased by three investors with a passion for historic preservation, Ross Sheppard, an Atlanta-based realtor, Jacob Hawkins, and Will Walker.  The amount of love and care in restoring the Rockwell House is evident throughout. According to Loveproperty.com, “the sunny yellow colour is faithful to the original exterior, with traces of the shade found on the building beneath newer layers of paint”. The Rockwell House now operates as an events space for weddings and overnight stays.  More information about the Rockwell House can be found here. Photography credit: Leland Kent, Abandoned Southeast