The historic Lapham-Patterson House in Thomasville, Georgia, has been beautifully decorated for the Christmas season by the John Lee of Nansemond Chapter of the National Society Colonial Dames Seventeenth Century. The transformation includes festive adornments in the front porch, two parlors, and the dining room, inviting both new and returning visitors to experience the holiday spirit in this iconic home.
Constructed between 1884 and 1885 as a winter retreat for Chicago shoe manufacturer Charles W. Lapham, the house showcases a blend of Victorian charm and Southern hospitality. This year, the Colonial Dames have reimagined the dining room’s décor, featuring vintage china from Ivory Continental in the “Queen’s Bouquet” pattern. This particular design, which includes a prominent rose motif, has historical significance, with some sources suggesting it was created in the 1920s to honor Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, during her visit to Canada in 1939.
Rich History and Cultural Significance
The mantelpiece in the dining room is adorned with festive garlands and religious figurines that represent the Holy Family, the three kings, the shepherds, and angels, adding to the room’s warm atmosphere. Visitors often inquire about the origins of the house’s name, particularly the Patterson surname. In 1905, James G. Patterson purchased the property, and members of the Patterson family resided there until 1970. The youngest daughter, Alice Patterson Stevens, then gifted the property to the city of Thomasville.
Subsequently, the house underwent several transitions, being transferred to the state of Georgia and then to the Georgia Historical Commission, which was later integrated into the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. After a temporary closure in 2009, the Thomas County Historical Society took over the management of the house in 2010, and it is now operated by the Thomasville History Center.
Visitor Information and Holiday Schedule
The Lapham-Patterson House is open for tours, offering an excellent opportunity to explore its rich history and festive decorations. Interested visitors can contact the Thomasville History Center at (229) 226-7664 for details regarding tour days and times. As the holiday season approaches, the house stands as a testament to both its historical significance and the spirit of community celebration.
The Lapham-Patterson House is more than just a historic site; it is a vibrant centerpiece of Thomasville’s cultural heritage, especially during the festive season. Whether it is the intricate decorations or the stories embedded in its walls, the house promises a delightful experience for all who visit.
