This is the most important surviving house in the historic village of Irwinton. It was built by Dr. William Fisher circa 1835. Interim owners were Fisher descendants and, possibly, Dr. Joshua Wood. Today, the house is most associated with the Carswell family, beginning with George H. Carswell. In Architecture of Middle Georgia: The Oconee Area, John Linley notes: “Though probably antebellum, the inviting porch may have been added, or at least remodeled, after the house was built, while the masonry piers, which form the lower part of the columns are undoubtedly twentieth century.” Linley also made mention of a Civil War occupation of the house by General W. F. Smith, though it is now known that General Smith was not present in Irwinton. This was likely sourced from family lore. The Union army was definitely present in Irwinton during November 1864, so this may have led to the confusion.

I’m grateful to Carl Langston, the present owner of this house, for allowing me to photograph it. Mr. Langston is a descendant of the Carswell family and is presently restoring the house. He confirms much of the history recorded by John Linley and adds that the house was originally the center of a much larger property. He also notes that the porch was added in the 1920s.