Nestled at the tail end of the Reconstruction Era, sometime between 1867 and 1876, is the quaint Gothic Revival dwelling affectionately known as the Little House. Its history intertwines with that of James Cain Little, a man who played diverse roles throughout his lifetime. Rising to prominence following his service in the Confederate forces at the tender age of 17, James later assumed the helm of the local railroad, serving as its President for an impressive 30-year tenure. Born to Robert Patterson Little and Elizabeth Cain Little, he established himself as a respected merchant within the vibrant fabric of the town, leaving behind a lasting legacy that echoed well into the early 20th century.
In 1875, James Little embarked on a significant endeavor by purchasing approximately half of a city block from William A. Wilkens, a prominent property owner in Louisville at the time. The transaction amounted to $2,000, a substantial sum by the standards of the era. The following year, Mr. Little engaged the services of L.J. Guilmartin & Co. to construct his majestic residence, investing $4,000 in the creation of his expansive 5,000 square foot home situated on one of the block’s corners. This remarkable dwelling boasts a magnificent central staircase, soaring 15-foot ceilings, an inviting wrap-around front porch, intricately etched transom windows, and a plethora of other exquisite features.
In 1911, James Little undertook another significant transaction involving the property, this time selling it to his wife, Nellie Patterson Little, for $5,300. While it is widely believed that this transfer was not merely a gift but rather a formal sale, the precise reasons behind it remain speculative, potentially linked to business or legal considerations. James Cain Little passed away in 1917, leaving behind a legacy that endured through the extraordinary residence he once called home.
The Little family encountered daunting obstacles as the boll weevil devastated Georgia’s cotton industry throughout the 1920s. These challenges intensified with the stock market crash of 1929, plunging the nation into the depths of the Great Depression, a prolonged period of economic hardship that endured until the outbreak of World War II. Throughout the country, countless farmers, merchants, banks, and businesses fell victim to the economic turmoil of these years.
Amidst these trials, Nellie Little displayed remarkable resilience, choosing not to remarry following her husband’s passing. Nevertheless, in 1924, she faced a difficult decision: parting with the family residence. The property was sold to C.W. Powers for $6,500, a significant moment in its history that mirrored the shifting fortunes experienced across the nation during those tumultuous times.
In the midst of the Great Depression’s grip in 1937, the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC) took action by foreclosing on the property. Subsequently, HOLC auctioned off the residence for $4,900, marking a challenging period for both the home and its occupants.
Fast forward to 1948, the heirs of Minnie W. McDaniel facilitated the sale of the property to Mrs. Winnie W. McDaniel for $7,500, signifying a pivotal moment in its ownership. As the 1950s unfolded, the downstairs rooms took on a new role as a boarding house, shared by three aunts. Among them, one aunt ran a home beauty salon on the right side downstairs, relying on it as her primary source of income.
In 1987, the children of Winnie McDaniel opted to sell the property, passing ownership to Eve Maria Griffin for $30,000. This transaction marked another significant turn in the property’s journey, as it continued to evolve across the decades, each chapter weaving together the tales of those who once called it home.
Eve Griffin held ownership of the property until just last year, a period spanning several decades. Well-known in the local music scene during the vibrant 1960s and 1970s, Eve earned acclaim as a beloved lounge singer in the area. Her ties to the house run deep; while she officially acquired it in 1987, her connection to the residence dates back even further.
In earlier years, Eve and her family resided in the house, sharing it with her mother, Hattie Mae Willie, who coincidentally happened to be the niece of Minnie McDaniel. Together with Eve’s four siblings, they created a bustling household filled with familial warmth. Notably, Eve’s younger brother, Ennis Willie, made waves in literary circles with his graphic novels. His literary journey began within the walls of their home, where he penned his debut work, “Vice Town,” in 1962. Ennis crafted his novel drafts on a trusty Royal typewriter located in the downstairs front bedroom, laying the groundwork for his future literary achievements and leaving an enduring mark on the home’s rich history.
The Little House is grappling with significant challenges, particularly regarding its deteriorating roof, which urgently requires extensive repairs. Large exposed holes have triggered issues like mold growth and falling plaster, posing significant risks to the structure’s integrity. Despite its location within a historic district, there are currently no immediate plans to designate the house as a National Register of Historic Places property.
In 2017, the Louisville Downtown Development Authority assumed ownership of the property with a commitment to stabilizing and preserving the house. Efforts have been underway to tackle the pressing issue of the decaying roof and to clear away overgrown vegetation from the surrounding area. Despite these endeavors, the future of the home hangs in the balance.
Currently listed for sale at a modest price of $15,000, the Little House presents a distinctive opportunity for prospective buyers to contribute to its restoration and preservation. By investing in its rehabilitation, they can play a vital role in ensuring that this piece of local history endures for generations to come.
In 2020, the Little-McDaniel house saw a glimmer of hope when it was purchased, sparking a wave of efforts to rejuvenate the aging structure. Restoration work commenced promptly, and within just three months, significant progress was evident. The house received essential upgrades, including a new roof, a reinforced foundation, and windows that finally functioned after years of neglect.
However, tragedy struck on July 20, 2020, when a bolt of lightning struck a nearby tree, setting off a devastating fire that rapidly engulfed the historic home. Despite the swift restoration efforts and the renewed optimism surrounding its revival, the fire resulted in a heartbreaking total loss, dashing hopes of preserving this cherished piece of local history.
Photography By: Leland Kent of Abandoned Southeast
The Little House and many more amazing abandoned places from Georgia are available in his book, Abandoned Georgia: Exploring the Peach State.