The dining room of the Vann House. (Contributed Photo)In 1805, Cherokee Chief James Vann opened his new home to Moravian missionaries, who held one of the first Christmas celebrations in the Cherokee Nation.
In honor of that historic event, the Vann House Historic Site will host its annual candlelight tours on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 8-9, from 5 until 9 p.m. The public is invited to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a 19th-century Christmas in one of America's best-preserved Cherokee homes.
Vann House will be decorated with natural greenery and handmade items similar to those the Moravians used.
Inside the house, visitors may tour at their own pace and visit with Friends of the Vann House volunteers in each room to hear the story of the Vanns and their home.
Jane Davis will play harp music Friday night from 5 to 7 o'clock, while string musician Matt Downer will play 1800s' tunes from 7 to 9 p.m.
Saturday night, harpist Sloane Singleton along with well-known Chatsworth musician Jim Pankey and Downer will entertain visitors.
To complete the tour, guests can see four restored Cherokee log buildings, also lit by candles. Complimentary hot apple cider and Moravian cookies will be served.
The museum at the Vann House will also be open during the program. Visitors can view exhibits and a short film before seeing the house. Lanterns will light the paths between the museum and the Vann mansion.
Vann House is located at the intersection of Georgia Highways 225 and 52 Alternate in Spring Place, just west of Chatsworth, Ga.
Admission to the program is $6.50 for adults, $6 for senior adults 62 and older, $5.50 for youth ages 6 to 17, and children ages 5 and under are free.
For more information: 706-695-2598.