Hallehurst
Hallehurst, an architectural and historical gem,
located in Giles County, Tennessee,
now owned by Roy and Emily Jones, is now open for tours, weddings and receptions by Reservation Only.
Tours are available Monday- Friday, by appointment only; no Saturday tours will be available.
The cost is $10 per person and includes refreshments.
Architecturally, the beautifully restored structure looks more like the homes of New England and is rare, possibly the sole neo-classical pattern of its kind in Giles County. It truly stands out among the more customary Greek Revival, Georgian or Victorian homes of the latter half of the 19th century. At the turn of the century, Hallehurst was described as the most elegant "farm house" in Giles County. The house was often graced with prominent individuals from this state and beyond. The house is also unique in that the well-known black architect family, McKissicks, had a part.
Hallehurst was built in 1890 by Newton H. White. Newton was acting Treasurer of the State in 1900 and a Senator and twice Speaker of the House. He is the only man who has been twice speaker of that body, and that clearly illustrates his ability and respect of colleagues. In 1887, the Governor appointed him a state railroad commissioner. In 1924, he was a delegate to the National Democratic Convention. In Giles County, he spearheaded the building of the new courthouse in Pulaski. He was a stockman and agriculturist of repute. He was also a founder and director of the Union Bank of Pulaski and was solely responsible for founding the multi-million dollar National Life and Accident Company of Nashville by securing the credit. He remained a director until his death. The National Life Building is still in Nashville with a plaque acknowledging his contribution. National Life was the first sponsor of the Grand Ole Opry. National Life's success made him the first Giles County millionaire to be listed in financial journals.
White had gone to Dallas, Texas, to marry Halle Gardner, of the
Oak Cliff section of Dallas, whom he had met when she visited Tennessee. He named Hallehurst for his wife.
An amazing coincidence --- the present mistress of Hallehurst also grew up in the
Oak Cliff section of Dallas, Texas.
Call the Giles County Tourism Foundation at 931-363-3789, Extension 22, for information.
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