While never abandoned, this circa 1890 Colonial Revival is said to have sat vacant since at least 2015 before selling in 2022 for more than $1.3 million. It’s unknown the current state of the property, we can only hope the new owners will be restoring it back to its former glory! The 7,400+ square foot residence is the former home of Harris Clay and was proclaimed as being one of Augusta’s finest properties and one of the last great mansions ready for restoration. According to the listing, the home and grounds have a rich history of their own, and were known to regularly host President William Howard Taft on his visits to Augusta, as he was a good friend of the family. The property was on the market with Ross Trulock of Blanchard and Calhoun.

“Built in 1893 by Landon Addison Thomas Jr. and his wife, Minnie Fleming Thomas, the Thomas-Clay house is one of the cannot miss homes in the Summerville Historic District. Mrs. Thomas named the home “Cloister Garth” because of its gardens. The blend of Queen Anne and Colonial Revival architectural styles create  a unique home with walls made of stone, brick, and wood and a red clay tile roof. Also included on the three acre property are numerous service areas, gardens, accessory buildings, and garden rooms. The front entrance has a  grand porte cochère which is connected at a slight angle to the front porch and on the  other side of the house there is a large sun porch. The house remained in the same family for over a century, but was recently purchased by the Church of the Good Shepherd in 2019. Over its existence, the home has hosted notable visitors such as President William Howard Taft and Supreme Court Justice Joseph Rucker Lamar.” – Historic Augusta Incorporated.