mage Credit: The Today Show
The Gone with the Wind plantation has captivated audiences for generations, bringing to life the grandeur and complexity of the antebellum South. This iconic setting, inspired by real-life plantations in Georgia, has become a symbol of Southern charm and a window into the tumultuous era of the Civil War. From its roots in Margaret Mitchell’s novel to its portrayal on the silver screen, the plantation has left an indelible mark on American culture.
At the heart of this fascination lies Twelve Oaks, the real-life inspiration for the fictional plantation in Gone with the Wind. Located in Covington, Georgia, this stunning antebellum home has a rich history dating back to 1836. Now operating as a bed and breakfast, Twelve Oaks offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the elegance of the Old South. This article explores the legacy of the Gone with the Wind plantation, its architectural significance, and its enduring impact on popular culture.
The Real Twelve Oaks: From Fiction to Reality
Margaret Mitchell’s Inspiration
In 1936, Margaret Mitchell penned her iconic novel, “Gone With the Wind,” unaware of the lasting impact it would have. When Selznick International Pictures acquired the film rights in 1939, Mitchell’s involvement was minimal. However, she made one significant contribution. Upon discovering a photograph of an 1836 plantation-style house in the Atlanta Journal, Mitchell sent the clipping to Wilbur Kurtz, a historian consulting with the film’s set designers. She noted, “I like this for Ashley’s home,” referring to Twelve Oaks.
The Actual Mansion in Covington, Georgia
The real Twelve Oaks stands proudly in Covington, Georgia, a town known as “The Hollywood of the South” due to its frequent appearances in over 125 movies and television shows. Judge John Harris built this magnificent home as his town house in 1836. After changing hands several times, the property was purchased by Robert Franklin Wright, who named it The Cedars. Later, Nathanial S. Turner acquired the home, renaming it Whitehall and adding significant architectural enhancements.
Historical Significance
Twelve Oaks has a rich history intertwined with the Civil War era. Judge Harris owned a large plantation near Covington that was pilfered by federal troops in 1864 during Sherman’s march to the Sea. The Atlanta History Center houses journal entries from both Sherman and Harris, detailing Sherman’s thirty-day stay at the Harris Plantation.
Today, Twelve Oaks stands as a testament to antebellum architecture and has gained recognition on the National Register of Historic Places. Following a USD 2 million restoration in 2017, the mansion now operates as a bed and breakfast and event venue, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Old South while providing modern amenities.
Architectural Marvel: A Glimpse into Antebellum Design
Greek Revival Style
The real Twelve Oaks, known as Whitehall, stands as a prime example of Greek Revival architecture. Built in 1836, this 11,000-square-foot mansion showcases the grandeur of antebellum design. The Greek Revival style, popular in the American South during this period, is characterized by its symmetrical structure, tall columns, and flat roof. Twelve Oaks embodies these elements, presenting a facade that exudes elegance and sophistication.
Notable Features
The mansion’s exterior features include a wide veranda and impressive white columns, creating a striking first impression. Inside, the home boasts twelve fireplaces, each now modernized with remote controls. The master suite is particularly noteworthy, featuring a morning bar and architectural details that highlight the home’s historical significance. One of the bathrooms contains a rare antique luxury shower, while two bathtubs, each costing over $14,000, add to the opulence of the interior.
Comparison with Other Plantations
When compared to other famous plantations, Twelve Oaks stands out for its architectural integrity and historical significance. While Tara, the fictional plantation in “Gone with the Wind,” was described as a modest “white-washed brick house,” Twelve Oaks was portrayed as more grandiose. The real Twelve Oaks surpasses even this fictional depiction, with its perfect symmetry and stately beauty. Its design has drawn comparisons to other notable antebellum sites, with some experts suggesting that Covington has more beautiful old houses than can be found in Natchez, Mississippi, another area renowned for its antebellum architecture.
Twelve Oaks in Popular Culture
Gone with the Wind Novel and Film
Twelve Oaks gained widespread recognition through Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 novel “Gone with the Wind” and its subsequent film adaptation. In the novel, Mitchell described Twelve Oaks as a “beautiful white-columned house that crowned the hill like a Greek Temple,” embodying true Southern charm. The 1939 film, directed by Victor Fleming, brought this vision to life, albeit with some exaggeration. The movie’s portrayal of Twelve Oaks was more grandiose than Mitchell’s original description, resembling Colonial Revival mansions popular in the early 20th century rather than an authentic antebellum planter’s home in rural Georgia.
Other Film and TV Appearances
Beyond its iconic role in “Gone with the Wind,” Twelve Oaks has featured in numerous other productions. The estate served as the exterior of the Salvatore’s 1864 home in the popular TV series “The Vampire Diaries” (2009). It has also appeared in films such as “Vacation” (2015), “Life of the Party,” and Tyler Perry’s “The Family that Preys.” Additionally, Twelve Oaks has been used in various commercials and TV shows, including a national Rooms To Go commercial featuring Cindy Crawford and episodes of “Southern Fried Homicide” and “In the Heat of the Night.”
Impact on Southern Iconography
Twelve Oaks has become a symbol of the Old South, contributing to the romanticized image of antebellum plantation life. Its portrayal in “Gone with the Wind” has significantly influenced public perception of Southern history and culture. The mansion’s grand architecture and picturesque setting have helped create a nostalgic view of the pre-Civil War era, often overshadowing the harsh realities of that period. As a result, Twelve Oaks has become an integral part of Southern iconography, representing both the glamor and the controversial aspects of the antebellum South in popular culture.
Preserving History: Twelve Oaks Today
Restoration Efforts
The current owners of Twelve Oaks have undertaken significant restoration efforts to preserve this historic landmark. In 2017, they invested USD 2 million in a comprehensive restoration project, bringing the mansion back to its former glory. The restoration has enhanced the property’s original features while incorporating modern amenities. The 10,000-square-foot mansion now boasts 11-foot ceilings, hardwood floors throughout, and period-appropriate chandeliers and lighting. The 12 fireplaces have been modernized with remote controls, seamlessly blending historical charm with contemporary convenience.
Bed and Breakfast Experience
Today, Twelve Oaks operates as a luxurious bed and breakfast, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the antebellum era. The mansion features 12 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms, each meticulously decorated to reflect the period. Guests can enjoy elegant bathrooms, including two with tubs costing over USD 14,000 each and one with a rare antique circular shower. The property also boasts modern amenities such as a swimming pool with a historic pergola, covered porches, and a large deck. The surrounding three acres of gardens provide a picturesque setting for relaxation and events.
Educational Tours
Twelve Oaks has become an important educational resource, offering tours that provide insights into the antebellum South and the property’s connection to “Gone with the Wind.” The mansion’s rich history, including its inspiration for Ashley Wilkes’ plantation home in Margaret Mitchell’s novel, makes it a valuable site for learning about Southern history and culture. Its frequent appearances in movies and television productions have further cemented its place in popular culture, attracting visitors interested in both history and film.
Conclusion
The Gone with the Wind plantation, embodied by the real-life Twelve Oaks in Covington, Georgia, has left an indelible mark on American culture. Its journey from a fictional backdrop to a tangible piece of history showcases the enduring allure of the antebellum South. The mansion’s architectural grandeur, coupled with its rich history and cultural significance, has made it a symbol of both the glamor and the controversial aspects of the Old South.
Today, Twelve Oaks stands as a living testament to the past, offering visitors a unique chance to step back in time. Its transformation into a bed and breakfast and its role in numerous films and TV shows have helped to keep its legacy alive. As we reflect on the complex history it represents, Twelve Oaks continues to spark discussions about the South’s heritage and its place in American history.
FAQs
1. What is Twelve Oaks and its current status?
Twelve Oaks is the name of the plantation that featured as Ashley Wilkes’ home in the 1939 film “Gone with the Wind.” Located in Covington, Georgia, it was purchased by Anthony Tippins and Natalie Powlas in 2019 through an auction. Originally built in 1836, this mansion has been transformed into a successful Bed and Breakfast.
2. Why is “Gone with the Wind” historically significant?
“Gone with the Wind” is significant because it uses the romance between its main characters to delve into the effects of the Civil War on individuals and the society of the South. The film presents a romanticized perspective of the Southern United States during the Civil War era, portraying slavery in a controversially positive light and expressing sympathy towards the Confederate cause.
3. To what extent is “Gone with the Wind” historically accurate?
While “Gone with the Wind” incorporates themes related to the American Civil War, it is not entirely historically accurate. The narrative, while including some real events of the war, primarily focuses on fictional characters and their personal stories, making the themes broadly relatable even to global audiences.
4. Are the characters in “Gone with the Wind” based on real individuals?
The characters in “Gone with the Wind” are fictional. Although the story includes real historical events from the American Civil War and the Union Army’s campaigns, the personal dilemmas and stories of the characters are entirely created for the narrative.
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