Georgia’s Old Capital Heritage Center at the Depot hosted Rockwell Day at the Rockwell Mansion to fundraise for the Brown-Stetson-Sanford House.
The 1825 Brown-Stetson-Sanford House is an important building in Milledgveille’s history and for events in the present. The original preservation of the house began the local preservation movement in Milledgeville and began the creation of the Downtown Historic District. The house has served as a museum from 2012 through the present that reflects life in Milledgeville from 1857 through 1890. In addition to the museum, the house hosts many educational tours and may be used as a venue for weddings, civic and social club meetings and more.
“This house holds so much importance for not only historic Milledgeville but the present day. It is important that we preserve it to the utmost care,” said Amy Wright, executive director at the Georgia’s Old Capital Heritage Center at The Depot, Inc.
Rockwell Day was a fundraising event to preserve these many functionalities of the Brown-Stetson-Sanford House. The event was hosted in another restored house, the Rockwell Mansion.
“This was a special event for ages. Guests could tour the mansion, stroll the grounds and enjoy a picnic basket lunch prepared by Pickle Barrel on the lawn of the mansion,” said Wright. “This was a chance to fundraise for the Brown-Stetson-Sanford House but also let people experience the beautiful Rockwell Mansion.”
The mansion was originally built for Colonel Samuel Rockwell. Rockwell was the seventh generation of his family to reside in America. The home was built and designed by Joseph Lane Sr. as a very sturdy construction which is why the mansion remains in such good condition today.
Rockwell Day took place on the lawn of the mansion with events for all ages. There were games like Flickin’ Chicken, golf and corn hole along with live music from the Fall Line Rambler. Every guest also has the opportunity to be a part of several raffles, a silent auction and a picnic lunch.
“It is gratifying to work on an event that brings people together to celebrate this community’s commitment to preserve its rich heritage,” said Chairperson of the committee for the Rockwell Day Fundraiser and new GOCHC board member Sara O’Neal in a press release.
The event had a large turnout of volunteers and guests. Georgia College & State University’s sorority Alpha Omicron Pi volunteered at the event to help with games and food. There were also many members of the Old Capital Heritage Center at the Depot that ran check in, food services and the raffles.
Georgia’s Old Capital Heritage Center at the Depot continuously works to preserve historic landmarks throughout Milledgeville and allow the public to learn about history through first hand experiences. To donate to the preservation of the Brown-Stetson-Sanford house, go to https://thedepotga.org/the-brown-stetson-sandford-house.