McAfee House to be Saved

​The Eliza and Robert McAfee House, a historic central hallway cottage, stands as a testament to pre-Civil War architecture in Cobb County. The circa 1840s house was constructed with heart pine timbers and features original heart pine floors, walls, and ceilings. During the Civil War, it served as Union Brigadier General Kenner Garrard's headquarters and a field hospital following the June 11, 1864, skirmish at McAfee's Crossroads. Reportedly, blood stains remain visible on the upstairs bedroom floorboards, hidden beneath modern carpeting. As one of the oldest surviving structures in the Atlanta area and the last pre-Civil War building in Cobb's Town Center area, the McAfee House is an important piece of Georgia history.

Threatened by planned development, the house was generously donated to Cobb Landmarks by the current property owners. Cobb Landmarks then offered the house for $1 to individuals committed to relocation and preservation. A selection committee, comprised of Cobb Landmarks trustees, realtors, and construction/engineering professionals, reviewed over 40 applications. Ultimately, Lee and Brittani Lusk, passionate historic preservationists from Ball Ground, Georgia, were chosen. “We always loved this home, and always had fear that it would be torn down,” Lee said. “We’re honored that we were chosen out of so many people to be entrusted in moving the home and saving its integrity.”

The buyer and developer of the property has granted the Lusks until May 15, 2025, to relocate the house to Ball Ground. "Cobb County residents who cherish this home will be able to fully appreciate its original beauty on its new property," Lee said. “Through the years we have consistently advocated for the house's preservation by attending Cobb County Planning Commission meetings, meeting with county commissioners, and, for several years, attempted to find a way to relocate the house,” said Trevor Beemon, Executive Director at Cobb Landmarks. "I am so pleased to know that our efforts have paid off and that this wonderful house will be given a second chance," said Beemon. Once moved, Cobb Landmarks will require the house to be protected by a preservation easement to ensure the exterior will retain its historic integrity and that the house will be protected from demolition moving forward. Check back for updates.