Now Available for the First Time In Over Three Generations
The Lodge at Blue Springs has served as a private family retreat and compound for one of the Southeast’s most prominent families. Cason Callaway cultivated and manicured this 127 acre estate with meticulous detail that beautifully reflects his conservation ethic and initiatives.
The Lodge overlooks a pristine, spring fed lake and ridge that marks the start of the Pine Mountain range. This 6000 square foot log home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and seamlessly blends rustic charm with timeless sophistication. The history and heritage surrounding this property coupled with its beauty and uniqueness, make The Lodge at Blue Springs a rarity that simply cannot be replicated.
The Callaway Family built an economic empire and dynasty as they grew the family textile business into a regional and national industry leader. In 1920, Cason Callaway took the reigns of Callaway Mills, assuming the responsibility of chief executive officer. Shortly thereafter, while on a picnic with his wife Virginia, the young couple discovered Blue Springs, a natural spring producing 300 gallons of freshwater per minute, as well as Barnes Creek.
The family purchased the 2500 acre property and began construction of a dam to create Lake Ida. This spring fed lake would become the backdrop for the Callaway family retreat, forever known as The Lodge. The original cabin was designed by the noted architectural firm of Ivey and Cook of Atlanta. Construction began in 1931 and called for logs to be felled on site.
A dinner party at The Lodge ca. 1939 (left). The original lodge completion ca. 1932 (center). FDR and Cason Callaway ca. 1941 (right).
The Lodge at Blue Springs was the focal point of land holdings owned by the Callaway family that once consisted of more than 40,000 acres. Accordingly the property is vastly improved with structures and amenities that befit a family of such prosperity.
An impressive granite office with exposed timbers stands alongside the masonry gated entrance and served as headquarters for Cason to oversee his massive land holdings. Approaching the lodge, a bridge spans the terraced, rock lined spillway of the 14 acre Lake Ida where a private woodland pathway borders the creek leading to a series of 7 circular lily and koi ponds.
Crystal clear Barnes Creek (left). Aerial view of the lily ponds (center). A trail through the blueberry orchard (right).
