Great Oaks

Great Oaks is a mansion in Greenwood, Florida, built in 1860 as an interpretation of Greek Revival architecture. The structure is constructed primarily from heart yellow pine, with only the stair rail made from cherry wood.

The mansion was built in 1860 by Hamilton Bryan on a plantation originally established by his father Elijah Bryan. This construction represents a significant moment in antebellum architecture in the region.

The mansion represents how Greek Revival architecture was interpreted by local craftspeople to meet the needs of plantation society in the American South. The construction methods reveal how property owners of that era used regional materials and building traditions for their homes.

The property is not open to visitors for interior access, but can be viewed from State Highway 71 where an informational marker describes its history. The roadside location makes it easy to stop and read about the site.

The mansion kept its original paint for over a century before the Claude Reese family undertook major restoration work between 1961 and 1965. This extended preservation of the original finish is striking for a structure built so long ago.

Location: Florida

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 30.87000,-85.16194

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07