Perched majestically atop Coleman Hill in downtown Macon, Georgia, the Johnston-Felton-Hay House, commonly known as the Hay House, stands as a testament to opulent Italian Renaissance Revival architecture and 19th-century innovation. Often hailed as the Palace of the South, this grand mansion offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of its former inhabitants and the remarkable craftsmanship of its era.
The Hay House was constructed between 1855 and 1859 by William Butler Johnston and his wife, Anne Tracy Johnston. The couple, inspired by their extensive travels through Europe, commissioned the New York architectural firm T. Thomas and Son to design their dream home. The result was an 18,000-square-foot mansion featuring 24 rooms spread across four levels, crowned by an impressive three-story cupola.
The Johnstons' wealth, amassed through banking, railroads, and public utilities, rather than the cotton economy, allowed them to incorporate cutting-edge technology into their home. When completed, the Hay House boasted hot and cold running water, central heating, a speaker-tube system connecting 15 rooms, a French lift (equivalent to a modern-day elevator), an in-house kitchen, and an elaborate ventilation system—unheard of luxuries at the time.
William and Anne Johnston's vision for their home was influenced by their grand tour of Europe from 1852 to 1855. During this extended honeymoon, they visited numerous museums, historic sites, and art studios, collecting fine porcelains, sculptures, and paintings along the way. These treasures found a new home in the Hay House, adding to its allure and grandeur.
The Johnstons had six children, but only two survived to adulthood. Caroline and Mary Ellen Johnston were born in 1862 and 1864, respectively, and spent their formative years within the opulent walls of the Hay House. The mansion was a place of comfort and splendor for the Johnston family until the late 1800s.
After the death of Anne Johnston in 1896, her daughter Mary Ellen and her husband, Judge William H. Felton, took up residence in the house. The Feltons undertook significant renovations, updating the plumbing and adding electricity to the home. Their only child, William Hamilton Felton Jr., married Luisa Macgill Gibson in 1915, and the newlyweds moved into the Hay House, where they lived with their two sons until 1926.
In 1926, the Hay House changed hands once again, this time purchased by Parks Lee Hay and his wife, Maude. The Hays redecorated the entire home, bringing it into the 20th century with modern décor while preserving its historical essence. The mansion became a local landmark, admired by all in middle Georgia. Parks Lee Hay passed away in 1957, followed by Maude Hay in 1962.
Following Mrs. Hay's death, her heirs established the P.L. Hay Foundation and operated the house as a private museum. Recognizing its national architectural significance, the Hay House was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974. In 1977, ownership and operation were transferred to The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation, ensuring its long-term preservation.
Today, the Hay House is one of Macon's most popular tourist attractions, drawing approximately 20,000 visitors each year. It also serves as a prominent rental venue for special events, making it a cherished part of the community.
The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation has embarked on a successful $7.6 million capital campaign to restore and maintain the Hay House. Of the funds raised, $3.5 million was allocated to establish an endowment for ongoing maintenance. Restoration efforts have included repairing the exterior, cupola, and most public rooms, as well as conserving the stained glass, masonry, and original furnishings.
Upcoming projects include redesigning the gift shop, adding new insulation, and writing specifications for mortar repairs on the building's exterior. The goal is to ensure that the Hay House remains a well-preserved and historically accurate representation of its time.
A visit to the Hay House is a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the lives of its former residents and the architectural marvels of the 19th century. The mansion's interiors are adorned with intricate plasterwork, stunning chandeliers, and period furnishings that transport visitors to a bygone era.
One of the most notable pieces in the collection is the 1857 marble statue Ruth Gleaning by American expatriate sculptor Randolph Rogers. This exquisite work of art is a testament to the Johnstons' appreciation for fine craftsmanship and their dedication to creating a home of unparalleled beauty.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, the Hay House is a must-see attraction in Macon, Georgia. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and ongoing preservation efforts make it a true gem of the South. Take a tour, explore its grand rooms, and immerse yourself in the stories of the Johnston, Felton, and Hay families who once called this magnificent mansion home.
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