Claude Smith Baseball Field, Univ Ctr Dr, Macon, GA 31204, US

HistoryHistoric Macon Foundation became the regional leader in historic preservation on July 31, 2003 with the merger of the Middle Georgia Historical Society and the Macon Heritage Foundation. The merged organization inherits the missions and activities of both constituent groups. Since 1964, we have been the region's historical society of note. The goal of the merger was to create a stronger, more efficient and effective voice for historic preservation in Middle Georgia. We educate the greater Macon community about its history and historic preservation; preserve and restore historic buildings, sites and neighborhoods; and maintain and promote the Sidney Lanier Cottage House Museum, built in 1840 and birthplace of the noted poet, musician, and soldier Sidney Lanier (1842-1881). The bricks and mortar activities of the Macon Heritage Foundation will be pursued through continued efforts in neighborhood and downtown revitalization.SpecialtiesThe Sidney Lanier Cottage serves as headquarters for Historic Macon Foundation and the Lanier Center for the Literary Arts. The Cottage includes a gift shop with exclusive local gifts such as wine glasses, tea towels and beer glasses with line drawings of Macon's historic architecture. The 1840 historic home was the birthplace of Georgia's noted poet Sidney Lanier and is open for public tours Monday through Saturday in addition to a vibrant arts calendar from special events. Historic Macon Foundation is one of the most effective preservation non-profits in America, with programs to preserve architectural treasures, revitalize historic neighborhoods, and educate the public about local history. The Cottage can also be rented for private events such as intimate weddings, cocktail parties or dinners.