Georgia has always been such a haven for unique and unforgettable pieces of history. There is so much to learn about our great state, it’s a wonder how we all get anything else done. But one of my favorite snippets of history from the Georgia chapter, comes in the form of the Horton House on Jekyll Island. Not only was the Horton House the first brewery in the state of Georgia (beer lovers unite!), but it also is considered to be one of the oldest standing buildings in the entire state. Though the building is in ruins, it’s still a hauntingly beautiful place to visit, and has an incredible history that is sure to excite any Georgia lover.
The Horton-du Bignon House was built in 1743 by Major William Horton, an important aide to General James Oglethorpe.
Flickr rmanoske
Major William Horton was also a beer enthusiast, and built the very first brewery in Georgia on this property.
Wikimedia
What is so impressive about this house, besides the fact that it’s still standing, is that it isn’t made out of regular building materials.
Flickr BEV Norton
Horton House was constructed out of a material called “tabby” which was not used very often to build Georgian structures.
Flickr Natalie Maynor
Tabby was made by burning oyster shells which eventually created lime. The lime was then mixed with sand and water which created this strong, yet fishy sort of cement.
Flickr Jeremy Keith
While it may not sound the sturdiest, you have to realize that if this structure is still standing after two centuries of storms, wind, rain, and elements, tabby must be pretty darn good.
Flickr Clinton Steeds
After the Spanish attacked the shore where the English inhabited, the Horton House became a target. Although it was burned, and partially destroyed, many pieces of the house still remain intact. French officer Poulain du Bignon rebuilt the house after the fire and lived there with his family until they all passed. They are buried across the street from the ruins in their own family cemetery.
Flickr rmanoske
Wikimedia
Flickr BEV Norton
Flickr Natalie Maynor
Flickr Jeremy Keith
Flickr Clinton Steeds
Wikimedia
How about that for some unique Georgia history?! The coolest part though, is that these ruins are still open to visitors who are looking to explore the property. You can find the ruins here:
Google Maps
Horton House
Google Maps
375 Riverview Drive
Jekyll Island, Georgia, 31527
Or, if you’re itching to discover some more unique Georgian ruins, check out A Visit To The Abandoned Ruins Of A Famous Georgia Murder Will Terrify You.
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