A pre-civil war home stood in Pumpkin Valley at the entrance of Allatoona Pass. It was the center of the 1700 acre estate of J.C. Armstrong: architect, builder, and businessman. In order to keep his 15 year old son productively occupied, Mr. Armstrong built the valley's first general store and post office in 1853 on the property. This brick store still exists today directly behind and part of the garage. At some time the original pre-civil war house burned. The remains were dismantled and used to build the small house directly beside the store. This little house is in dire need of repair. The current owners hope to restore this quaint home in the near future.

In 1893, upon the original house-site, Armstrong built his victorian mansion which is now the inn. He constructed it with twin wrap-around verandas graced by rhythmical fretwork (gingerbread) brackets and balustrades. Meanwhile, the busy railroad lay directly across the street. It made history during the civil war when the Battle of Allatoona Pass was fought here. The property also took part in "The Great Locomotive Chase". This chase involved a train called "The General", which can be seen in Kennesaw today at their museum. The house has changed hands many times over the years. There is a rumor that in the 60's the house was a nudist colony, and at one time a bordeaux earlier in the century. Many times the home was just a private farm. In the 1980's, it was a business known as Southwinds. Southwinds was a health resort for women featuring southern charm, exercise, and great cruisine. It was next sold to another owner who wished to run a retirement community at this site. Unfortunately for her, zoning was never granted and they ended up selling the property too. The next owner lost the home in foreclosure after it was left abandoned for several years. Vandals then proceeded to steal much of the beautiful windows, doors, woodwork and fireplace mantels.

In 2000, a very ambitious family, the Butlers, bought the property on the courthouse steps. They completely gutted the home and restored it with Victorian parts of other homes. The restoration took over two years. The Butlers never opened it as a B & B, though they knew the great potential it had. In September of 2006, The Smith's bought the home to open as a B & B, stable, wedding and event facility. The Smiths also realized that it would be a wonderful family home. David Smith's love of the lake and boating and Lynn's lifetime love of horses made this their perfect property. Lynn is also a Trend Atlanta real estate agent and can help you find your dreamhome or farm while you visit.