314 osborne

OWN A TREASURE OF AMERICAN HISTORY The Jackson-Clark house, built in 1801, is the oldest continuously occupied residence in southeast Georgia remaining today. It is located in the St. Marys Historic District adjacent to Orange Hall and the memorial plaque on the burial of President George Washington at Mount Vernon. The property has received numerous awards as both a Georgia and US national historic treasure. Construction of the house began in 1801 by Charles Jackson, who died soon thereafter. The property was purchased by Major Archibald Clark, a saw mill owner who was appointed as the Port of St. Marys Collector by President Thomas Jefferson. Major Clark was renowned for his courageous stand against the British naval forces and was briefly imprisoned for his refusal to turn over the city's assets. He was released when word of the 1812 Treaty of Ghent ended the British occupation and they left. Subsequently, the house has hosted guests such as Vice President Aaron Burr, fleeing from his fatal 1804 duel with Alexander Hamilton. General Winfield Scott also stayed here on his return from the Florida Indian Wars to defend against the British invasion of Georgia. The property was purchased in 1999 by Mr. Thomas Nesbitt, a direct descendant of Clark's and restored under US Department of The Interior Historic Preservation Guidelines over the next eight years. Many of the original features and fixtures still exist. Mrs. Catherine Nesbitt operated the A. Clark Antique store during that period as well. The home is presently used as a residence, VRBO rental and the owner's, a retired Superior Court Judge's law office. The property is located in the city's Historic District. Potential uses, subject to city and HPC approval, include a rambling family compound, VRBO, medical/prof practice, or residence with a store or office. The property is a short walk to the award-winning St. Marys Elementary School, waterfront dining, shops, a picturesque waterfront park, public boat launch and ferry to the Cumberland Island National Seashore. A perfect blend of history and modern conveniences.