Though this property was long associated with the Kirkland family, it was originally the home of Dr. John Luther McLean (1856-1912), who was a native of Coffee County, Georgia. After studies at Emory University School of Medicine and the Atlanta Medical College, he settled in Tattnall County in 1893 and established a medical practice. He was identified as an allopath. He married Minnie Stubbs McLean (1875-1960), and they had two children. The first, an unnamed infant daughter, was born in 1896 and lived only one day. Their son, Raleigh H. McLean (1902-1946), was active in the Elks Lodge and served in World War II.
Dennis Odom writes: “I live about 2 miles from the house and am much interested in local history. My dad used to refer to the house as the “Dr. McLean Place” After some research I have found that this was Dr. John Luther McLean…”
“Our community is called Birdford, which at one time was a small village located about a half mile West of the McLean house. Dr. McLean was also a Georgia State Senator in 1902-03. He is buried at the nearby Beards Creek Church Cemetery. I don’t know what happened to his family after his death.“
According to local tradition, this was Dr. McLean’s medical office. It is critically endangered and if it has been correctly identified, is a rare example of a rural doctor’s office in its original location.
This tobacco barn is one of several outbuildings in various states of repair that remain on the property. It was likely built during the Kirkland ownership.
Hey just want to say it’s exciting to finally get to see some information and pics of old place, we was pretty much raised in this house with stories & memories that will always be a part of us..thank you for posting it..
My father told me once that it was the home of a local doctor but I do not remember his name and my father is now deceased.
Beautiful!
Oak Hill is just down the road from my home. We have always admired this old place. It has for years been the property of the Kirkland family. My parents tried to persuade the Kirklands to sell it years ago, but they were not interested in selling. I have enjoyed your pictures on here; they really hit home.
Thanks, Dylan. I met Pat Gore last night at a reading in Reidsville, and she told me you might know more about the old Glennwanis Hotel. Thanks for your interest.
Nice find and pictures of this old home place, ‘Oak Hill, Tattnall County.’ And, don’t we wish we knew what made the last residents, here, simply up and leave, without renovating or finding a buyer who would?
Indeed, Tom. This is something I always wonder about, especially when it’s such a fine old home.
I’ve often wondered that too, Tom, when I see such beautiful houses. Someone obviously put a lot of time and love into building it.
wow. i’d love to see this in person. you’ve photographed it beautifully.