Macon-Bibb County, Georgia, boasts a rich architectural heritage.
From historic districts to modern marvels, the area features a variety of styles and structures that tell the story of its development over the years.
Discovering the best architectural buildings in Macon-Bibb County offers a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural and historical evolution.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or a casual visitor, these buildings provide an insightful look at the area’s past and present.
1. Hay House
The Johnston-Felton-Hay House in Macon is a masterpiece of architecture.
Built between 1855 and 1859, it covers 18,000 square feet and includes 24 rooms.
The house is known for its Italian Renaissance Revival style, which stands out among the Greek Revival structures of the antebellum period.
Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1974, the Hay House offers regular tours and special events.
Often called the “Palace of the South,” it has seven levels and features innovative architecture and technology for its time.
Learn more about its history and events on the Hay House website.
2. The Cannonball House
The Cannonball House is located at 856 Mulberry Street in Macon, Georgia.
Built in 1853, it showcases Greek Revival architecture.
The house got its name from damage it sustained during a Union Army attack on July 30, 1864.
It now serves as a museum displaying artifacts from Georgia’s antebellum and reconstruction eras.
Owned and operated by The Friends of the Cannonball House, it invites visitors to explore Macon’s rich history.
3. The Federated Garden Clubs Headquarters
The Federated Garden Clubs Headquarters, also known as the Neel House, is a notable architectural gem in Macon.
Built in 1910, this Tudor Revival house was designed by renowned architect Neel Reid. It is located at 730 College Street.
The house includes original furnishings and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Federated Garden Clubs of Macon use the space for meetings and events, maintaining both the building and its garden.
4. St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Macon, Georgia, is a stunning example of Romanesque Neo-Gothic architecture.
Built in 1892, this historic church features twin spires that reach 200 feet in height.
The foundation was laid in 1889, and the building was dedicated in 1903. The church is located at 830 Poplar Street in downtown Macon.
For a more detailed look at this architectural gem, visit the St. Joseph Catholic Church website.
5. The Johnston-Felton-Hay House
The Johnston-Felton-Hay House, also known as the Hay House, is a notable historic residence located at 934 Georgia Avenue in Macon, Georgia.
Constructed between 1855 and 1859, the house was designed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, making it unique compared to the prevalent Greek Revival architecture of the time.
The mansion spans over 18,000 square feet and includes 24 principal rooms.
Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1974, it remains a significant piece of Macon’s architectural heritage. For more information, visit the Johnston-Felton-Hay House.
6. The Woodruff House
The Woodruff House is located in Macon, Georgia, on the Mercer University campus.
Built in 1836, this Greek revival-style mansion has a rich history and significant architectural value.
General James H. Wilson used the Woodruff House as his residence and headquarters during his campaigns. Today, it stands as a testament to the antebellum era and Southern architecture.
The house is sometimes referred to as the Cowles-Bond-Woodruff House.
It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and overlooks downtown Macon. For more details, visit Exploring Macon.
7. The Grand Opera House
The Grand Opera House in Macon, Georgia, is a historic theatre located at 651 Mulberry Street.
It was originally known as the Academy of Music when architect W. R. Gunn designed it.
Its 58×90 stage made it the largest in the Southeast, and it could seat over 2100 people.
In 1904, the front facade was replaced with a more commercial look.
Today, it is a performing arts center of Mercer University, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and other events.
For more information, visit The Grand Opera House.
8. The Sidney Lanier Cottage
The Sidney Lanier Cottage was built in 1840 by Larkin Griffin. It is located at 935 High Street in Macon, Georgia.
This historic home was the birthplace of poet, musician, and soldier Sidney Lanier.
The cottage stands as a significant piece of Macon’s architectural history.
Sidney Lanier was born here on February 3, 1842. The home has since become a site for various events and celebrations.
The Middle Georgia Historical Society purchased the cottage in 1973.
They opened it to the public in 1975, making it a museum and event space. The cottage also housed the Lanier Center for Literary Arts until 2021.
9. Terminal Station
Terminal Station in Macon, Georgia, stands as a significant piece of architectural history.
Designed by Alfred Fellheimer, it was constructed in 1916.
The station, known for its Beaux-Arts style, features limestone exterior cladding and marble floors.
This station is part of the Macon Historic District, which adds to its cultural importance.
Today, Terminal Station remains a testament to early 20th-century design and continues to be a point of interest in Macon-Bibb County.
10. Macon City Auditorium
The Macon City Auditorium is a historic building in Macon, Georgia.
Built in 1925, it features distinctive architecture, including a Doric-style limestone colonnade and a massive copper dome. The dome is noted as being the largest of its kind.
The Auditorium seats 2,400 people and is a hub for various events like concerts, plays, and meetings.
Located in downtown Macon, it is also a National Historic Landmark.
Renovation plans worth $10 million have been proposed to upgrade this nearly 100-year-old structure, aiming to enhance its accessibility and functionality.
Architectural Styles in Macon-Bibb County
Macon-Bibb County, Georgia, features a rich variety of architectural styles. These include Colonial, Victorian, and Modern Architecture, reflecting the area’s diverse historical influences and cultural heritage.
Colonial Architecture
Colonial architecture in Macon-Bibb County represents some of the earliest buildings in the region.
This style dates back to the 1820s when Macon was founded. The most defining features include symmetrical façades, brick exteriors, and stately columns.
Many homes and public buildings from this era still stand today, showcasing the craftsmanship and simplicity of early American design.
Notable examples of Colonial architecture can be seen on Walnut Street and College Street.
These structures are often well-preserved, allowing visitors to experience the architectural traditions of the early settlers in the region.
Victorian Architecture
Victorian architecture emerged later in the 19th century and is well-represented in Macon-Bibb County.
This style is known for its ornamental and intricate designs, including gingerbread trim, tall, narrow windows, and steep gable roofs.
Many Victorian homes and buildings in the historic district feature bright colors and decorative woodwork, reflecting the era’s fascination with elaborate and artistic designs.
The Macon Historic District is a key area where Victorian architecture thrives.
These buildings contribute significantly to the area’s historic charm, attracting both tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Modern Architecture
Modern architecture in Macon-Bibb County spans from the mid-20th century to the present day.
Characterized by clean lines, minimalist design, and innovative use of materials, this style contrasts sharply with the more ornate architectural styles of the past.
The Historic Macon Foundation highlights numerous mid-century modern homes that are significant examples of this style.
These include properties on Nottingham Drive, showcasing simplicity and functionality without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.
Modern buildings reflect the county’s ongoing evolution and its willingness to embrace contemporary architectural trends.
Influential Architects in Macon-Bibb County
Macon-Bibb County boasts a rich architectural history shaped by prominent architects. Among the most notable are Neel Reid and Ellamae Ellis League, whose contributions significantly influenced the local architectural landscape.
Neel Reid
Neel Reid was a key figure in Macon’s early 20th-century architecture.
He co-founded the firm Hentz, Reid & Adler, which became instrumental in bringing the classical revival style to the region.
Reid’s works are characterized by their elegant proportions and refined details.
Notable projects include the Woodruff House and the original Macon Terminal Station.
Reid’s impact extended beyond individual buildings; he also helped design entire neighborhoods, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Reid’s works often featured large columns, balanced facades, and meticulous landscaping. These elements are evident in many surviving buildings and have influenced generations of architects in Macon.
Ellamae Ellis League
Ellamae Ellis League was a trailblazing architect in Macon during the mid-20th century.
As one of the first female architects in Georgia, she brought a modernist approach to her designs.
Her firm, opened in 1934, designed numerous residential and commercial buildings that still stand today.
League is best known for her work on the Macon Housing Authority buildings.
Her designs often incorporated functional layouts and modern materials, reflecting the changing architectural trends of her time.
Her work on the Willingham Chapel at Mercer University showcases her ability to blend modernist elements with traditional forms.
League’s contributions helped pave the way for future female architects and left a lasting mark on Macon’s architectural heritage.
Significance of Architectural Preservation
Architectural preservation maintains the character and heritage of a community.
In Macon-Bibb County, it plays a key role in preserving the region’s rich history and cultural identity.
Historic buildings like those in Macon’s Historic District represent unique architectural styles from various periods.
Preserving these structures keeps the aesthetic and historical value alive.
Maintained historical sites can also boost local economies.
Downtown Macon, for example, has seen growth fueled by its well-preserved architecture, which draws tourists and supports local businesses.
This shows that preservation isn’t just about history; it has economic benefits too.
Besides economic impact, architectural preservation fosters community pride.
When people see well-maintained historic buildings, it reminds them of their shared heritage and encourages them to take part in community activities.
Additionally, sustainability is another important benefit.
Repurposing historic buildings rather than constructing new ones reduces environmental impact.
Retrofitting old buildings for modern use is an eco-friendly option.
This aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainability.