History Night at the Museum

This Event is immediately following the artists reception “Wine & Wonders

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

“History of The Hardman Farm”

The tree-lined road leading from the visitor center to the house is a remaining portion of the historic Unicoi Turnpike. This 200-mile road went from Toccoa to western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. It began as a buffalo trail, then a Native American trading route. Built in 1870 by Captain James Nichols, the house is a grand example of Italianate architecture and was originally known as “West End” because it was at the west end of the Nacoochee Valley. Its second owner was Calvin Hunnicutt, a wealthy Atlanta businessman. Hunnicutt used the house only as a summer retreat and much of his original furniture remains. The last owner was the family of Dr. Lamartine Hardman, Georgia’s governor from 1927–1931. It was lovingly preserved and donated to the state of Georgia in 1999.

Join us for more interesting history on this popular local landmark. The presentation will be held in the Kollock Room of the Helen Arts & Heritage History Museum. Admission is free; however, donations are appreciated as funding makes it possible for us to provide quality programming. The presentation immediately follows the center’s gallery exhibit opening, so come early and browse the new art exhibit and meet the artists.