Don't let the scaffolding deter you. The Chief Vann House in Chatsworth, Georgia, is in the process of a full exterior restoration, but the annual candlelight tours of the historic home will take place as planned on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 7-8, from 5 to 9 p.m.
Chief James Vann opened his new brick mansion to the Moravian missionaries in 1805 for their Christmas Love Feast and sermon. In honor of that event, the Chief Vann House Historic Site annually holds its candlelight tours. The public is invited to enjoy the sights and sounds of an 18th-century Christmas in one of America's best-preserved Cherokee homes.
Guests should arrive no later than 8 p.m. to ensure they have time to view the house and exhibits.
The Vann House, Cherokee Farmstead and two- story cabin exhibit will be illuminated by more than 200 candles to light paths as visitors tour the grounds.
The Robert E. Chambers Museum will be open for visitors to view a short film of the home's history before starting their tour. Vann House will be decorated with wreaths, candles, fresh boughs and winter blossoms, just as the Moravians and their Cherokee students once did.
Inside the home, visitors may tour the house at their own pace while listening to the soft strumming of Christmas carols played by a musician. Tour guides will be stationed throughout the grounds to answer any questions. The self-guided tour ends with hot apple cider and Moravian cookies served beside the fireplace in the log cabin.
No reservations are necessary; visitors may pay at the door. Admission is $6.50 adults, $6 for senior adults and $5.50 for children ages 6-17. Children 5 and younger are free.
The Christmas decorations will remain up until Christmas Day. The Vann House Historic Site will be open during regular hours of 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. The last tour begins at 4 p.m. daily.
Vann House is located at 82 Georgia Highway 225 North, three miles west of Chatsworth.
For more information: 706-695-2598.