Margaret Mitchell wrote her fictional novel about the Civil War-era Deep South, Gone with the Wind, in 1936. At the time, it never occurred to her that the novel would become an enduring classic. Three years later, when Selznick International Pictures purchased the film rights to the book, the author had no interest in being involved in the production except for one thing: locating Ashley Wilkes’ mansion. (Image Credit: Target Auction)
It seems Mitchell came across a photograph of an 1836 plantation-style house in the Atlanta Journal that was exactly what she envisioned. She cut it out and mailed it to David Selznick with notations. And the rest is Hollywood history!
After becoming one of the most easily recognizable pieces of celebrity real estate, Twelve Oaks fell into disrepair. However, in 2017, its current owners began a $2 million restoration to return the Antebellum home to its former glory. As it is now completed, the owners want to begin a new project. As such, Twelve Oaks has recently been put up for auction ending July 25th with a starting bid of $1 million.
A Modernized Antebellum Mansion
Indeed, today’s Twelve Oaks is even more stunning than when Mitchell found it! Not only did the property’s restoration tend to the architectural details, it included the addition of 21st-century amenities. The mansion has 11-foot ceilings, hardwood floors, chandeliers and period lighting throughout its 10,000 square feet. Twelve fireplaces route into five eye-catching brick chimneys. However, now, the fires are controlled remotely. Period decor adds to the ambiance of the formal parlor and large dining room. The only room that belies the home’s historic roots is its new and thoroughly modern kitchen.
The highlight of master suite is the personal library with built-in wood bookcases flanking a fireplace. So spacious, it has room for seating and a library table. Beyond the master retreat, Twelve Oaks has an additional 11 bedrooms and 12 baths. And even the bathrooms exude drama. Two of the tubs are quite decadent. In fact, they cost over $14,000 each. Another bath features a rare antique circular shower that sprays from shoulders to feet!
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In addition, there are three laundry rooms, a fire-sprinkler system and intercom. The rooftop captain’s walk affords lovely views. The grounds feature a swimming pool with historic pergola, covered porches, a large deck and over three acres of gardens. And the four-car carriage house has Tesla and Copper Creek charging stations for both cars and golf cars respectively. Moreover, streets here are golf cart legal.
The Quintessential Southern Town
Located 30 miles east of downtown Atlanta, Covington, Georgia is the perfect example of a historic southern town. In fact, more than 125 movies and television shows appear on the town’s resumé, earning it the nickname of “The Hollywood of the South.” The Georgia Television and Film Museum in downtown Covington details the town’s career.
The mansion is only three blocks from the town square with its wide range of restaurants and shops. Its prime location has surely impacted Twelve Oaks success a bed & breakfast and event venue. To date, the estate has earned a number of impressive accolades including Best of the South by Southern Living in 2018. Trip Advisor listed Twelve Oaks in their Hall of Fame. It even won Best of the Knot and the WeddingWire Couples Choice Award!
Twelve Oaks, the inspiration for Ashley Wilkes’ plantation home in Gone with the Wind, is now up for auction with bidding open through July 25. In addition, some furniture will be available for sale separately. Dewey Jacobs of Target Auction and Land Company, Inc., Gadsden Alabama, is the auction manager.
Courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com