The Chattooga County Historical Society will hold its annual fall meeting next month at one of the county’s historic homes, offering visitors an opportunity to explore local history and learn about the preservation of a landmark property.

The meeting is scheduled for Sunday, November 8, at 2 PM, at the Finley-Sanford home, located at 3065 Holland-Chattoogaville Road in Lyerly.

The historic home was built in 1832, before the Cherokee Removal, on land purchased by Samuel Finley from the Cherokee Land Lottery. The property eventually became home to several generations of the Finley family.

The Finley family was closely connected to the development of the surrounding community. Major Sam Mosteller, who lived on the property, operated a general store nearby and also served as a minister.

In the early 1970s, Carl and Tippy Sanford purchased the property from Miss Miriam Finley and began restoration and preservation efforts that continue today.

Miriam Finley, who was known for her interest in local history, served as an unofficial historian of the Holland community and was an active member of the Chattooga County Historical Society.

During the November 8 meeting, Tippy Sanford will welcome visitors to the home. Guests will have an opportunity to view before-and-after photographs of the restoration, along with furniture, antiques and other historical features of the property.

Refreshments featuring old-fashioned baked goods will be served, and members of the Chattooga Garden Club will provide seasonal arrangements for the tour.

The Historical Society will also have keepsake Christmas ornaments available for purchase. This year’s ornament features a steam locomotive crossing the steel bridge at Trion, commemorating the area’s railroad history.

Historical Society President Gene McGinnis said the meeting will offer an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the home, with docents available to answer questions.

The meeting is open to the public, and anyone interested in Chattooga County history is encouraged to attend.

The Chattooga County Historical Society has nearly 300 member families and welcomes new members. Annual membership is $20 and includes a quarterly publication.

For additional information, residents may contact P.O. Box 626, Summerville, Georgia 30747, or email chattoogahistory@outlook.com.