UPSON COUNTY, GA - HISTORICAL HOUSES McDaniel-Atwater-Daniel House

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Historic Houses printed in Upson Historical Society Newsletters:
September 1999

GRAND OLD HOUSES

THE MCDANIEL-ATWATER-DANIEL HOUSE  serves an example of
the Neo-Classical style. It has a central pedimented
portico and side porches with paired Doric columns.
Another classical feature found on the first floor is
the use of fanlights on top of the front door and
windows. The house was constructed in the 1919-1920
period and may have been designed by G. Lloyd Preacher,
the architect who designed Atlanta's City Hall.


The first owner, Mr. John Will McDaniel [grandfather to
Charles W. McDaniel, Jr.] was a prominent Thomaston
citizen. From 1895 to 1900, he served as the Town
Marshall. He won a seat on the County Commission from
1925-1931. For some years, he enjoyed success as a
peach farmer. Mr, McDaniel died on October 23, 1948.

The second owner, Mr. James A. Atwater, affectionately
known as "Captain Atwater," acquired the house in the
early 1930's. Mr. Atwater, the son of James W. Atwater,
once the county's wealthiest citizen, gained early
prominence in the community by being elected Mayor in
his early 20's. His primary business interest focused
in banking. For years he was the president of the C &
S. Bank in Thomaston. Investments in the Thomaston
Mills, real estate, and other enterprises added to his
wealth. He made many contributions to the schools of
the city and county. His father was a founding trustee
of R. E. Lee Institute and led this work for 23 years.
Captain Atwater served as chairman of the trustees from
1927-1938. The Science Building at R. E. Lee was named
for him as its chief benefactor. Mr. Atwater died in
1957.