A History Buff’s Guide To LaGrange

Architecture
Biblical History
History

SEASON BEST ENJOYED

Fall
Spring
Summer
Winter

From the site of one of the last Civil War battles to stately antebellum homes and historical gardens, LaGrange is full of history. This three-day itinerary will have you yearning for more to learn about the fascinating history of the area.

THREE DAYS

Explore Georgia's oldest private college
Southern comfort food in a 19th-century church building
Visit the earthen fort where one of the last Civil War battles occurred

Day 1

Ancient Middle East & The Callaway Family Home

Encounter the ancient world through authentic archeological replicas
Tour one of the best preserved 19th-century gardens
Southern comfort food in a 19th-century church building

EXPERIENCE THE LIFE

OF BIBLICAL CITIZENS

Biblical History Center allows your family to encounter the ancient world through history and culture. Through authentic archeological replicas, Biblical meal presentations, daily life artifacts, lectures and personal experiences, ancient Middle Eastern life is revived. Biblical History Center is one of only eight museums in the world to house a long-term collection of artifacts from the Israel Antiquity Authority.

THE RENOWNED HILLS & DALES ESTATE

A must-visit while in LaGrange, Hills & Dales Estate was completed in 1916 and features a 13,000 square-foot home which was designed to flow gracefully into its gardens – a series of dwarf boxwood parterres planted by Sarah Ferrell, which have adorned the terraces of the hill for more than 175 years. The Ferrell Gardens are considered one of the best preserved 19th-century gardens in the country.

SOUTHERN FARE IN A PRESERVED PARISH HALL

Taste of Lemon is located in the former Second Methodist Church building, constructed in 1892. Within this unique building, the restaurant pays further homage to LaGrange’s history with its offering of Southern cuisine. Taste of Lemon serves lunch in a meat-and-three style. Poppy seed chicken, country fried steak and salmon croquettes are routinely on the menu along with a variety of fresh vegetables and sides.

LET'S EAT!

FOOD & DRINK

OPTIONS

Day 2

Explore Historic Downtown

Explore Georgia's oldest private college
Southern comfort food in a 19th-century church building
The world's best hotdog? You be the judge

EXPLORE THE OLDEST

PRIVATE COLLEGE IN GEORGIA

Day 2 of the itinerary begins with a tour of LaGrange College, Georgia’s first private college and home to Smith Hall, which once served as a hospital during the Civil War. Perfect for exploration, LaGrange College boasts nearly 200 years of history, beautiful landscaping and a stunning vantage point from its location on “The Hill.” LaGrange College was chartered in 1831 as LaGrange Female Academy, and now welcomes students from around the world!

DISCOVER HISTORIC LAGRANGE

The eclectic blend of historic structures and new growth in downtown LaGrange is best explored on foot. The downtown walking tour is designed to highlight interesting sites and stories of the past. The downtown district also boasts numerous antique and gift shops as well as many world-class restaurants. Be sure to walk the square and see the beautiful fountain, named for American Revolutionary War hero Marquis de LaFayette.

BROWSE TWO FLOORS OF ANTIQUE FUN

At Marketplace at LaFayette Square, discover one-of-a-kind treasures you can’t find anywhere else. Located in the downtown district, this antique shop boasts two floors full of booths and consignment options. Find collectibles, art, furniture and fine antiques from the 1700s and 1800s as you browse this antique-shoppers paradise!

TOUR A STATELY HOME

A National Historic Landmark, Bellevue is a significant example of the “domesticated temple” form of Greek Revival style architecture popular in the antebellum South. Built between 1842 and 1855 by U.S. Senator Benjamin Harvey Hill, Bellevue is open for tours Tuesday – Saturday.

AN IMPRESSIVE COLLECTION OF COKE MEMORABILIA

Charlie Joseph’s is home to the world’s best hogs and an impressive collection of Coca-Cola memorabilia. The menu offers southern classics like slaw dogs, Brunswick stew and juicy burgers, all within a nostalgic atmosphere. Be sure to take advantage of the outside Coca-Cola mural for an iconic LaGrange photo!

THE WORLD'S OLDEST COTTON BALE

Legacy Museum on Main, located in the heart of the downtown district, is home to a permanent exhibit as well as temporary exhibits. Permanent exhibits display items ranging from ancient artifacts, like a soapstone bowl believed to be 11,000 years old, to more “recent” historic artifacts from LaGrange’s rich textile history. While you’re there, be sure to check out the world’s oldest cotton bale on display!

LET'S EAT!

FOOD & DRINK

OPTIONS

Day 3

"The Last Fort to Fall" & A Craft Beer Homage to Textile History

Explore the site of one of the last Civil War battles
Discover a century-old textile factory
Sip on a Bavarian-style craft beer in a historic mill neighborhood

THE LAST FORT

TO FALL

On Day 3, you’ll begin with a relaxing drive through beautiful Troup County, seeing some of the original churches that served as gathering places for LaGrange’s first residents. In West Point, visit Fort Tyler, home of the final Civil War battle, tragically fought when neither side realized the war had already ended. Back in LaGrange, visit the historic Hillside neighborhood, which has been brought back to life by residents committed to preserving Georgia’s history. A visit to Elm City Mill demonstrates the scale of the textile industry that once thrived here. Beacon Brewing will not only delight your senses with delicious fusion food and expertly crafted brews, but will impress you with their weaving of Hillside and LaGrange history into every aspect of the business. At the Georgia Radio Museum, you’ll learn more about the history of radio in Georgia and see evidence of some legendary musicians who were recorded and played in Georgia.

HISTORIC CHURCHES OF TROUP COUNTY

On April 16, 1865, Union troops attacked Fort Tyler and its small group of Confederate soldiers. Many soldiers on both sides lost their lives that day, unaware that Confederate General Robert E. Lee had surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant seven days earlier. Fort Tyler was the last Confederate fort captured by the Union, giving it the distinction, “Last Fort to Fall.” Today, a marked trail leads visitors to the site of this small earthen fort overlooking the Chattahoochee River.

TEXTILE MILL HISTORY

The Elm City Plant was constructed in 1905 to produce cotton duck fabric. When it opened, there were two shifts for workers, each beginning and ending at 6:00 with an hour for dinner. By 1928, average base pay was 22 cents per hour, and it increased to 94 cents by 1949. Elm City showcases the attractive architectural features of textile mills during the early 1900s. All mills had towers and Elm City Mill has the most beautiful tower still standing.

HONOR TEXTILE HISTORY WITH A BEER

Not by accident, Beacon Brewing Co. is located in the historic Hillside neighborhood of LaGrange. The founder selected the area due to its history and ties to his family. Like many areas in the South, Hillside once flourished because of a booming textile industry that supported and employed many citizens in the community. This brewpub specializes in experimental beers and draws inspiration from traditional Belgian and Bavarian styles. Each craft beer has a distinct flavor and a name that stems from the historical significance of the area. Their dining options include a surprising and delicious fusion of Asian and Southern cuisine!