Georgia’s Antebellum Trail, the first official Trail in Georgia, is celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2009 with the first annual Antebellum Trail Pilgrimage.

Comprised of seven communities, this pilgrimage will transport visitors back in time as they visit historic homes, experience authentic battle sites, view impressive architecture and tour magnificent museums.

Traveling down the trail, you will enter a magical place where time has stood still. Each community, from Macon to Athens, holds hidden treasures from the past and features stately homes still active and enjoyed. Journey through Old Clinton and Watkinsville where a love of the past and southern hospitality are waiting. Experience intriguing history of some of Georgia’s most interesting cities such as Madison, Milledgeville and our very own Eatonton. Come and sip a mint julep or discover a hidden memory in these communities that serve as an exquisite reminder of a bygone era — an era now “Gone with the Wind.”

Georgia’s Antebellum Trail Pilgrimage will take place on three consecutive weekends this spring. The dates are April 16-18, April 23-25 and April 30-May 2 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. It will feature events and tours along the Trail as well as entrance into private, historic homes not open to the general public. Tickets are $25 and will include access to seven attractions and/or events. The tickets can be purchased at any of the Welcome Centers along the trail. To enhance the visitor’s experience, complementing tours and free events and activities will be featured throughout the pilgrimage weekends.

Eatonton has an abundance of dignified Antebellum and Greek Revival homes that make up the streetscape of the community. The pilgrimage has allowed for an opportunity to peek into these majestic beauties. Eatonton’s attractions during the Pilgrimage include entrance in four of our private homes, free admission to the Uncle Remus Museum and a tour of Rockville School.

For more information, a complete list of community attractions and to purchase tickets, visit www.antebellumtrail.org or contact us at (706) 485-7701.