The Murfreesboro Post, November 27, 2011
The historic locations featured in the 32nd Annual Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes have been released.
The annual Oaklands Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes is slated for 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday in historic downtown Murfreesboro.
The tour, sponsored by Oaklands Association will feature beautiful and historic private homes, a distinctive church, and the graceful Oaklands Historic House Museum.
“This years’ tour guides visitors along the old carriage path of the plantation and offers an opportunity to visit homes spanning several decades and various architectural styles,” said James Manning, executive director of Oaklands Historic House Museum. “Visiting the festively appointed homes on our Candlelight Tour is a popular way to begin the celebration of the holidays.”
In the late-1860s, the Maneys subdivided and sold most of the front drive into lots to create a residential neighborhood, originally called Maney’s Addition, thought to be Murfreesboro’s first subdivision.
It later became North Maney Avenue, which intersects present day Main Street.
These festively adorned historical homes and church, dressed in holly and evergreens, offer residents a chance to enjoy a simpler time, before the hustle and bustle of modern day life. Residents also have the opportunity to learn more about Murfreesboro’s Civil War heritage at the grounds of the Maney home.
From the veranda of Oaklands mansion, attendees will see the Sons of the Confederate Veterans, Murfreesboro Camp No. 33 as they present living history demonstrations on the lawn of the mansion.
The cornerstone of the tour is the grand Oaklands Historic House Museum.
Interpreters in period attire will guide visitors through the history of this gracious mansion.
Admission is $10 per person 21 years and older, students $8, ages 6-12 years $5 and ages 5 and under are free. Tickets may be purchased at any home on the tour or at Oaklands Historic House Museum.
The proceeds of the Candlelight Tour of Homes will go toward the care and upkeep of the museum.