Pebble Hill Plantation tours highlight famous visitors

THOMASVILLE — Pebble Hill Plantation is offering a series of special curator-led tours of the historic Main House and the Elisabeth Ireland Poe Gallery this summer. The tours, “Friends, Family, and Distinguished Guests of Pebble Hill Plantation” and “Women’s Work: Women Artists and Artisans in the Pebble Hill Collection” both will be led by museum Curator Lori Curtis.

These two very different tours will explore the lives and historical contributions of famous visitors to Pebble Hill and women artists and artisans who created some of the most beautiful pieces in the permanent collection of Kate Hanna Ireland Harvey and Elisabeth Ireland Poe. Both tours are fascinating journeys into the lives of the movers and shakers associated with the Hanna and Ireland families.

From President Eisenhower to Georgia Gov. Jimmy Carter, dignitaries, artists and celebrities visited Pebble Hill Plantation from 1901 to 1978, leaving behind legacies that resonate to this day. The “Friends, Family, and Distinguished Guests” tour will include the opportunity to explore resources from the Pebble Hill archives, offering a glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary individuals who made significant impacts in politics, medicine, natural history, and the arts. Space in these tours is limited to ensure the best possible experience for visitors. Tours are offered June 6 and June 20 from 10-11:30 a.m.

Showcasing exquisite artworks crafted solely by remarkable women, the “Women’s Work: Women Artists and Artisans in the Pebble Hill Collection” tour will delve into the stories and talents of pioneering women, including the likes of Dora Wheeler Keith, Eleanor Beard and Josephine Herrick, whose creations grace the Pebble Hill collection. These tours will be a combination of artistry and history, as our curator unveils the cultural significance and sheer brilliance of these female artists, offering a truly engaging and enlightening experience tailored for history enthusiasts and art aficionados alike. These tours are offered June 13 and 27 from 10-11:30 p.m.

Tickets for these tours are $30 and must be reserved in advance. You may purchase your tickets by visiting pebblehill.com. Children must be at least 6 years of age to tour the Main House. More information may be obtained by calling (229) 226-2344.