The Cannonball House museum had its first public tour
in April 1964. What makes it popular? In July 1864,
a Federal shell struck the house, damaging a column,
then traveling through the front exterior wall and an
interior wall before settling in the foyer. Unexploded!
The two-story Greek Revival Structure (built by famed
Macon architect Elam Alexander) was built in 1853 for
Judge Asa Holt and his wife Mary, as was the separate
kitchen/servants’ quarters. Take a step back in time.
Each room houses authentic antiques, either original to the Holt/Canning family
or donated by Macon families. The second story holds a Civil War museum room,
containing weaponry, uniforms, currency, photos relative to the period, and Macon’s
participation. The museum offers temporary exhibits in both structures, and the
garden is not to be missed. It was designed by a renowned horticulturist in the 1960s.
The staff are very knowledgeable about the museum's history, and local history
in general. The museum has been featured on the cover of ”Guide to Georgia’s
Antebellum Trail.” It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Open Monday
through Saturday, 10:00AM to 3:30PM. The museum hosts special events throughout
the year, often with an emphasis on children. During the annual Cherry Blossom
Festival, it holds living history days, which includes musicians playing for tour groups.