1855 Savannah Landmark With Ties to Flannery O’Connor and Julia Roberts Listed for $5 Million
A historic Greek Revival property in Savannah, GA, with a rich 171-year history—including relationships with an A-list actor. Julia Roberts and a respected author Flannery O’Connor-It hit the market for $4.95 million.
Completed in 1855, the stately residence at 211 East Charlton St. overlooks Lafayette Square and offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Savannah’s architectural and cultural history—which has remained in the hands of one extended family for over a century.
Along the way, he created compelling ties to both the literary scene and Hollywood.
Built from scratch Catherine A. McMahonthe four-bedroom home remained in his extended family for decades, which is unusual even in the Savannah Historic District.
After McMahon’s death in 1887, the property passed to his nephew, Kate Flannery Semmeswho expanded the residence in 1928 by acquiring a portion of the property next door at 207 East Charlton St., creating the delightful sprawl that exists today.
The remainder of the lot at 207 East Charlton St. it was purchased by other members of the Semmes family: the parents of Flannery O’Connor, who lived in the home from 1925 to 1938.
That nearby house has since been converted into the Flannery O’Connor Childhood Home, a museum honoring the writer who is widely considered one of the most important voices in US fiction of the 20th century.
Meanwhile, the property next door at 211 remains a private residence. It last changed hands in August 2000 for just $881,000.
“This residence is one of those rare properties where architectural integrity, provenance, and scale come together in a uniquely Savannah way,” said the listing agent. Corinne Cunningham Brownand Corcoran Austin Hill Realty.
“The 80 feet of Lafayette Square alone sets it apart, as does the level of care the family has put into all of their work.”
Spacious and well-proportioned, the 7,162-square-foot home is an example of antebellum Greek Revival architecture, with high ceilings, large windows, and large, light-filled rooms.
The front square shape of the home features views of the square and its cathedral—a bright and dramatic nighttime backdrop just steps from the front door.
“This home represents the best of antebellum Greek Revival,” added Brown, the listing agent. “Its setting, architectural perfection, and rich history contribute to a truly unparalleled legacy.”
That history even includes a moment on the big screen: Scenes from the 1995 film “Something To Talk About,” starring Roberts, Dennis Quaidagain Robert Duvallwere recorded on location.
Inside, the house offers an open scale of central space. Renovated in the early 2000s, the home has updated systems, baths, and kitchen.
“It has been inspected and is in excellent condition for a house of this age,” said Brown. “You can come in tomorrow.”
The third floor includes three bedrooms and a den, while the garden level comes with another bedroom and a full bath. Outside, a fully fenced yard, side porch, and expansive back deck create a private retreat in the heart of the Historic District.
The property’s long driveway connects Charlton Street directly to the carriage house, which provides parking for six cars, and flexible space for a studio or office.
“Opportunities to acquire a property of this scale and prominence in Lafayette Square are very rare,” said Brown. “It’s historic in every sense—architecturally, historically and culturally.”
