What is now a natural haven of nearly 2,000 acres began with a deal made from love. Buddy and Joni McClain, who had married in the Chapel, began what was to become a labor of love when they purchased the original 468-acre property. When adjoining acreage became available, they jumped at the chance to expand their domain. The added property included what is now the Guest House, which was built between 1837 and 1841. A descendant of the home once wrote that the property was spared from burning by Gen. Sherman on his infamous march through the South, though he did water his horses in the lake out front, and his men took food and other supplies. Now beautifully renovated, the Guest House offers all the amenities of the home, coupled with the quaint feel of days gone by.