
Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

This is one of two survivors of a group built in this common vernacular style between 1900-1920.
Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

Local tradition per Sister Rodewalt, reputedly validated in the original property deed, suggests that three Benedictine monks who died during a yellow fever epidemic are buried in the front yard.
Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

There are quite a few houses of this common vernacular style in Isle of Hope, most dating to the first two decades of the 20th century.
Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

Also known as the Wylly-Bee-LeBey House, this raised Plantation Plain is an interesting variant of the popular style of 19th-century Georgia. Local tradition says that construction of the house was started by Wylly and completed by Barnard E. Bee. A later owner, Miss Ella LeBey recounted this story: “Mr. Fred Wylly told my mother this…story. When the overseer and slaves were digging deep for the main chimney, an iron box with a ring in the top was discovered by the slaves and also human bones. The slaves thought it was a casket, quickly covering it over and the chimney was built. The Negroes were afraid of the haunting of the dead for disturbing the grave. Nothing was said until the chimney was almost complete and the overseer said the chimney was more valuable than any old pirate’s loot. After that, whenever the house was vacant people dug to find the treasure. Mrs. Chaplin [later owner] said she filled the hole with cement. Later we found reasons to believe she engineered the removal of the treasures because of the old watches and bracelets satin and velvet she showed my mother.“
Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

Though tax records indicate a construction date of 1864, that is likely the date of completion. It is thought to have been begun in the late 1850s and delayed by the Civil War.
Isle of Hope Historic District, National Register of Historic Places

The first weekend in February brings a popular celebration to historic Wormsloe each year, with colorful reenactors and period vendors on hand.

Colonial-era dances are always a popular activity and the public is encouraged to join in.

One can really appreciate the difficult lives of Georgia’s first settlers, especially on a damp, cold day.

These ladies were braiding belts and had some for sale, giving a nice demonstration of Colonial crafts.

These reenactors have an obvious passion for history.

The colorful dress of the militia men will definitely get your attention.

The event attracts people of all ages. If you’re ever in Savannah the first weekend of February, check out the Colonial Faire & Muster. Even if the weather isn’t always at its best, t’s a great way to celebrate Georgia history.