General Info

Did you ever wonder where author Margaret Mitchell got her ideas for Gone With The Wind? Well, Historical Jonesboro/Clayton County, Inc cordially invites you to visit Stately Oaks and find out! Our plantation house, located just 15 miles south of downtown Atlanta, will take you back to the days of Scarlett, Rhett, and the time of the War Between the States. We have costumed interpreters or MP3 tours that will guide you on a personal tour of our white columned residence and share with you the history of the house, the ties with the famous book and it's author, and Jonesboro's role in the Atlanta campaign during the Civil War. After the tour of our 1839 home and period outbuildings, we invite you to take a moment to enjoy some quiet relaxation under our beautiful oak trees. Who knows, while you rest on one of our benches or rocking chairs, you just might imagine seeing that dashing and genteel Ashley Wilkes passing by on his way to Juddy's Country Store. This authentic 1896 country store offers ice cold cokes, souvenirs, locally crafted items, and a dose of nostalgia by visiting a store of days by gone.Historical Jonesboro was founded in 1968 with the express purpose of saving the rapidly disappearing buildings, furnishings, and written documents that reflected the heritage of Clayton County, GAS. Buildings had to be moved to a secure location and the site selected was designated as the Margaret Mitchell Memorial Park. This was done to honor the famous author of Gone With The Wind, because Clayton County was not only the setting for Tara but also her great-grandfather's plantation.The structures now located within the fenced area of the property off Jodeco Road in Jonesboro reflect several periods of history. The crown jewel of the property is the Stately Oaks Plantation House, which was built in 1839 and is a true example of plain Greek Revival architecture. It is believed to be one of the inspirations for Margaret Mitchell's beloved Tara.All who share the love of history and preservation are encouraged to visit and tour the grounds and buildings of Historical Jonesboro/Clayton County, Inc, Jonesboro, Georgia. Memberships in Historical Jonesboro/Clayton County, Inc are available to help support the continued preservation of historic buildings in Clayton County. Become a member today!