A. H. Stephens State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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A. H. Stephens State Park
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Alexander Stephens Memorial
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 Location in Georgia (U.S. state)
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Crawfordville, Georgia |
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| Area | 1,200 acres (490 ha) |
| Built | 1875 |
| Architectural style | Colonial Revival, Rustic Style |
| NRHP reference No. | 95000764 |
| Added to NRHP | June 22, 1995 |
A. H. Stephens State Park is a large park in Georgia, covering about 1,177 acres. It's located in a town called Crawfordville. The park is named after Alexander H. Stephens, who was an important person in Georgia's history. He served as a governor of Georgia and was also the Vice President of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War.
Inside the park, you can visit Stephens' old home, called Liberty Hall. It has been carefully restored to look just like it did in 1875! The park also has a museum with many items from the American Civil War. You can go fishing in the park's ponds or explore nature trails.
This park is recognized as a special historical place on the National Register of Historic Places. It includes several old buildings and structures that show different styles of architecture, like Colonial Revival and Rustic Style.
Contents
The Park's Story
The land of A. H. Stephens State Park once belonged to Alexander Hamilton Stephens. After he passed away, a group called the Stephens Monument Commission took care of his home, Liberty Hall, and the surrounding area.
In 1933, the state of Georgia received the land. This helped create Georgia's third-oldest state park. Later, the U.S. Government added more land next to the property. This extra land was then given to the state, completing the park's current size.
Building the Park's Features
Many of the park's important structures were built in the 1930s. This work was done by groups like the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration. These programs helped people find jobs during a difficult time in history. They built roads, bridges, and buildings in parks across the country.
The park's museum was created in the 1950s. A woman named Horace Holden, who was Stephens' niece, helped make it happen. In 2001, the park grew even more when it acquired an additional 15 acres of land.
Liberty Hall: A Historic Home
Liberty Hall is one of the most important buildings in the park. It is also known as Bachelor's Hall. The original house was built in 1834. Alexander H. Stephens bought the estate in 1845. He lived in this house until 1875. Then, he tore down the main part of the house to build the larger Liberty Hall we see today.
The "big house" is a two-story building with four rooms on each floor. Behind the main house, there is a smaller building. Stephens spent a lot of time here after the Civil War, surrounded by his many books.
Liberty Hall After Stephens
After Stephens died in 1883, his relatives owned Liberty Hall. They used it as a boardinghouse, which is like a guesthouse, until 1932. Then, they donated it to the state of Georgia. Stephens' grave is located on the front lawn of Liberty Hall, beneath a marble statue.
Liberty Hall is a very special place. It is listed as a National Historic Landmark. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources helps to maintain and protect this important piece of history.
Park Activities and Facilities
A. H. Stephens State Park offers many things to do and places to stay. It's a great spot for outdoor adventures!
Camping and Lodging
- 21 campsites for tents, trailers, or RVs
- 4 cozy cottages for rent
- 1 group camp area for larger gatherings
- 1 pioneer campground for a more rustic experience
Horseback Riding
- 30 stables for horses
- 18 campsites specially designed for people with horses
Picnic Areas
- 2 picnic shelters for day use
- 1 group shelter for larger picnics or events
Fun Annual Events
The park hosts several special events throughout the year that families can enjoy:
- Junior/Senior Fishing Rodeos (usually in June)
- Christmas on Lake Liberty (in December)
- Victorian Christmas Program (in December)
