This style of house was once among the most common designs in Georgia and quite a few survive in varying states of repair, especially in the eastern part of the state. I believe this house, along with several other historic structures, was moved to this property quite a few years ago from a nearby location.
Thank you for documenting these passing treasures
I have also always called them “Plain Plantation” style. I was interested to know that there is a town with my namesake, “Hugh.”
This house style or plan is called Plantation Plain. For a study of Plantation Plain houses see Pharris D. Johnson’s “Houses of Heart Pine
The readers of Brian’s fantastic site who are especially interested in residences of this style and era might be interested in looking into “Travelers Rest State Historic Site” in Stephens County in NE GA. This old place very much in this style was originally built before 1820. It was later greatly expanded to become a coaching inn. It is beautifully preserved and well worth a visit anytime you are in the area.
John, I defer to the description. You’re exactly right. I sometimes confuse the two…Plantation Plain is essentially of the I-house style, but oddly, is less “plain” than the I-house. The I-house is just the rectangular house without the front and back slanting roofs on the first floor. I think the windows are smaller in Plantation Plain, as well. I’d love to consult Mr. Johnson’s book, but it’s outrageously expensive on Amazon and I can’t find it at any library near me. Does Mr. Johnson identify this house in his book? Thanks again!
I believe this type house is often referred to by architectural historians and preservationists as “Plain style” or “Plantation plain style”. They were usually built by more well off planters and very common in the eastern part of the state as far north as Elbert and Jackson counties. Most were built between 1830 and the Civil War though similar houses can be found dating considerably earlier. I know of a somewhat more sophisticated example in Oglethrope County which is said to be from the 1790’s (it is the same basic house with no front porch but an elaborate Federal doorway). Some early examples originally had an open central hallway on the lower level (dog trot). Another feature sometime found is the “preacher’s room” opening only to the front porch where the circuit riding parson could come in to sleep if he passed by after the family had retired for the evening.