In its heyday, Excelsior was the cultural center of Bulloch County (this part of old Bulloch is now located in Candler County), and Josh Everett was one of its pioneer settlers. While this house was being built, his family lived in a log cabin which was later moved for use as a servants’ dwelling. The house was originally built in the Plantation Plain style(circa 1866); the wings were added later as the family grew.
This mule & horse barn, a landmark in its own right, was built around the same time as the store across the road (1900). Mr. Everett had a nail for every mule and horse. Each one’s gear was on a different nail. There was also a sawmill beyond the barn. You know when you see it from Dutch Ford Road that it’s quite special, the sort of historic farmstead that is all too rare today.
Howard Bland and Fate DeLoach bought the property in 1940 and it remained in the DeLoach family until 1988. Thanks to the Nevil family, who recognize its historic importance, it’s still a working farm and has been given a dual purpose as Dutch Ford Farms Wedding & Event Venue. Susan Nevil gladly shared its amazing story. If you need a great location for a wedding or family reunion, get in touch with them via their Facebook page. I can’t imagine a more peaceful place for hosting an unforgettable event.
