Lapham-Patterson House State Historic Site

Welcome to Idlewilde Event Center at Indian Springs State Park

Conveniently located near I-75 in middle Georgia, Indian Springs is one of the oldest state parks in the United States and a popular spot for outdoor recreation.

Idlewilde Event Center at Indian Springs State Park is available for reservations. The name is derived from the majestic house on the property that serves as the park office and visitor center; and is on the National Historic Register. With another nod to past, the individual rooms in the center are even named after the historic hotels that once thrived in the village of Indian Springs. Idlewilde has 20,000 square feet of event space including a massive lake side porch with beautiful views of the water. With a capacity of 500 people, Idlewilde can accommodate a variety of events, from birthday parties and family reunions, to weddings and corporate retreats. Additional features include a catering kitchen and audio visual capabilities in every room.

For inquiries or to join the Idlewilde Event Center waiting list, please contact us on 470-707-8071.

Operated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources

Available event hours: 8:00AM – 10:00PM

Total footprint 19,557 square feet

Opened September 2018

Lapham-Patterson House State Historic Site

» Pet Notice:
› Leashed pets are allowed on historic site trails, however, they are not allowed in buildings. Please view our Park Rules page for more information.

This property is managed by the Thomasville History Center.

The Lapham-Patterson House is a monument to the imagination, creative engineering and craftsmanship of the Victorian Era. Fishscale shingles, oriental-style porch decorations, long-leaf pine inlaid floors, and a remarkable double-flue chimney with a walk-through stairway and cantilevered balcony exemplify the quality and skill of its Victorian creators. Due to its architectural significance, the Lapham-Patterson House was named a National Historic Landmark in 1975.

Built between 1884–85 as a winter cottage for prosperous shoe merchant C.W. Lapham of Chicago, the residence was well-equipped with its own gas lighting system, hot and cold running water, indoor plumbing and modern closets. Like many other successful Northerners, Lapham came to the bustling resort town of Thomasville for its mild, pleasing climate and the supposed therapeutic value of the pine-scented air. The Laphams sold the winter house in 1894, and it was re-sold in 1905 to James G. Patterson. The Pattersons remained in possession until 1970.

Learn more about The Lapham-Patterson House.