Stay in a Milledgeville Historic Landmark

Once home to a Georgia governor, soon-to-be featured on the upcoming HGTV series Life Under Renovation, and presently available for guests to stay overnight, the grand and colorful Rockwell House continues to turn heads 183 years after its initial construction.

This Milledgeville mansion built in 1838 features handcrafted architectural details highlighted by a delightfully fresh interior design. In March of 2019, new owners Ross and Will embarked on a major restoration of the home, done in compliance with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Historic Preservation. The scope of the project included all new systems (electrical, plumbing, heating & air), refinishing of original wood floors, repairing original plaster walls and molding details, replicating missing character-defining architectural details, fresh paint inside and out (restoring the original ochre-yellow exterior color scheme), and lots more. 

A new original series followed along with phase two of the Rockwell House’s restoration process. Viewers can tune in to the premiere of Life Under Renovation on April 28 on Discovery+. This docuseries will feature five families from around the country. Throughout the season (additional episodes will be available each Wednesday) follow each family as they take on the ambitious task of capturing the ups and downs of the biggest renovation of their lives. 

Today, the Rockwell House’s major restoration is complete and available for a memorable overnight stay. 

A Historic Landmark Experience

A National Register for Historic Preservation property, the Federal/Greek Revival home was designed by architect Joseph Lane during Milledgeville’s tenure as Georgia’s capital city (1803-1865). The home was originally constructed in 1838 for owner Colonel Samuel Rockwell, a lawyer from Maine; however, the home’s most well-known resident was Governor Herschel Johnson, who led the Georgia anti-secession movement. Governor Johnson used the property as a summer home during his political leadership in Milledgeville. 

Relaxing Porch

Today, guests may enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature from the home's large portico and verandah overlooking the grounds. The front portico gives guests an up close view of the stunning cast-iron fence surrounding the property. Local rumor abounds that the fencing cost $100 more than the initial construction of the house in 1838. On the back verandah, guests may enjoy the view of an on property pond as well as the 12-acre grounds.  

Pristine Bedrooms

The Rockwell House can accommodate up to 14 overnight guests and features four guest suites, each with its own private bath, sitting area and TV. The suites are a welcoming mix of antique and modern pieces. Each suite can be rented by individual parties, or groups can choose to rent the entire house for their stay.

Dream Kitchen

During the recent restoration, a 1980’s era kitchen was replaced with all new cabinets and appliances. The vinyl flooring was removed to expose original wood floors and the hidden fireplace was re-exposed to its original grandeur. 

Book Your Stay

Looking to visit overnight? The Rockwell House offers 4 individual guest suites or exclusive and private bookings of the entire house. The home can also accommodate a wide variety of events including receptions and weddings.