Chatsworth
Chief Vann’s historic plantation house, and grounds, serve as a physical connection to present day visitors of the early nineteenth century Cherokee cultural assimilation efforts planned to counter Georgia’s early expansion which ultimately led to the Cherokee Trail of Tears.
During the 1790s, James Vann became a Cherokee Indian leader and wealthy businessman. He established the largest and most prosperous plantation in the Cherokee Nation, covering 1,000 acres of what is now Murray County. In 1804 he completed construction of a beautiful 2 ½ story brick home that was the most elegant in the Cherokee Nation. After Vann was murdered in 1809, his son Joseph inherited the mansion and plantation. Joseph was also a Cherokee leader and became even more wealthy than his father.
In the 1830s almost the entire Cherokee Nation was forced west by state and federal troops on the infamous Trail of Tears. The Vann family lost their elegant home, rebuilding in the Cherokee Territory of Oklahoma. Today the Vann House survives as Georgia’s best-preserved historic Cherokee Indian home. A guided tour allows visitors to see the house which features beautiful hand carvings, a remarkable “floating” staircase, a 12-foot mantle and fine antiques.
Facilities
137 Acres
Visitor Center
Gift Shop
6 Picnic Tables
Bus Parking
Things To Do & See
½ Mile Nature Trail
Guided House Tour
Physicians Garden
19th Century Cherokee Farmstead
1920s Bradford Spring House
Three-Sisters Garden
82 Highway 225 North, Chatsworth
http://www.gastateparks.org/ChiefVannHouse
706.695.2598