Wisenbaker-Wells-Roberts House

4,589 Sq. Ft | 4.18 Acres | Fairview Historic District

Step back in time and own a piece of Valdosta’s earliest history with the iconic Wisenbaker-Wells-Roberts House. This extraordinary estate, the city’s oldest surviving home, sits proudly on 4.4 sprawling acres in the prestigious Fairview Historic District — a rare and inspiring opportunity for preservation-minded buyers and visionaries.

Nestled in the vibrant city of Valdosta, known as the “City of Azaleas,” this charming community of approximately 55,000 people is located just 15 miles from the Florida border and blends small-town warmth with thriving cultural offerings and convenient access to major highways. Valdosta’s historic downtown district boasts eclectic shops, delicious dining, and lively events year-round, making it a beloved hub for residents and visitors alike.

Originally constructed in 1845 as a charming four-room dogtrot cabin by William Wisenbaker, a founding figure of Valdosta, this residence has evolved through the decades. Expanded in the mid-19th century to a stately Plantation Plain-style home and then transformed in 1893 by noted architect Stephen Fulghum into a stunning Folk Victorian/Queen Anne masterpiece, the property blends timeless elegance with rich architectural heritage.

Home to two of Valdosta’s esteemed mayors, Jeremiah Wells and John Taylor Roberts, this house embodies the spirit and history of the community. It stands as a proud contributing structure in the National Register-listed Fairview Historic District (since 1984).

Despite fire damage in 2011, the house has been thoughtfully stabilized and preserved with major work already completed, including:

• Structural framing rebuilt
• Roof and porch fully stabilized
• Modern fire suppression and HVAC systems installed
• Key infrastructure upgrades implemented

Now primed for interior restoration and eligible for Historic Preservation Tax Credits, this historic gem awaits a dedicated steward to bring its interiors back to life as a private residence, unique boutique inn or heritage event venue.

Property is sold “As-Is, Where-Is” meaning that it cannot be moved or demolished, and it is the buyer’s responsibility to make improvements that are compatible with the historic character of the property. Properties sold through the Revolving Fund program have conservation easements in place to ensure the historic integrity of the property is retained. Additionally, buyers are required to sign a Rehabilitation Agreement and all work done to the property must abide by the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.