In 1864, a Federal artillery shell struck the home that
is now The Cannonball House Museum, damaging a
column, and traveling through exterior and interior walls
before settling in the foyer—UNEXPLODED!
Opened to the public in 1964, the Cannonball House
is a two-story Greek Revival structure designed by the
renowned Macon architect Elam Alexander. Constructed
in 1853 for Judge Asa Holt and his wife Mary, it includes
a separate kitchen and servants’ quarters. Visitors
step back in time as they explore each room, which
features authentic antiques, either original to the Holt-Canning family or donated by local
Macon families. The second floor contains a Civil War museum room, showcasing weaponry,
uniforms, currency, and photographs related to the era and Macon’s role during the war.
The staff have much to share about the museum’s history–and local history in general.
Featured on the cover of “Guide to Georgia’s Antebellum Trail” and listed on the National
Register of Historic Places, the museum offers temporary exhibits and a garden that is not to
be missed, which was designed by a renowned horticulturist in the 1960s. This museum is
open Tuesday through Saturday and hosts special events throughout the year, often with an
emphasis on experiences for children. Be sure to visit The Cannonball House during the annual
Cherry Blossom Festival for Living History Day with live music!
