Welcome to the Virginia Hand Callaway Discovery Center, nestled within the beautiful landscape of Pine Mountain, Georgia. This center is a vital part of the larger Callaway Resort & Gardens, a 2,500-acre oasis that began as a dream in the minds of Cason and Virginia Hand Callaway.
The story of Callaway Gardens begins in the early 20th century. In 1930, Cason Callaway, a textile magnate, and his wife Virginia, an avid horticulturist, discovered a rare azalea species, the Plumleaf Azalea, while picnicking in the area. Enchanted by the natural beauty, the Callaways purchased 2,500 acres of land with the vision of creating a retreat that showcased the region’s unique flora. Over time, their landholdings expanded to 40,000 acres.
In the midst of the Great Depression, the Callaways saw an opportunity not only to preserve the land but to restore it. They began transforming the depleted cotton fields into a lush garden, employing local workers in the process. By 1952, the couple opened the Ida Cason Gardens, named in honor of Cason’s mother. The gardens have since evolved into the Callaway Resort & Gardens, attracting millions of visitors annually.
The Virginia Hand Callaway Discovery Center itself is a hub of educational and environmental activities, housing exhibits that celebrate the region’s biodiversity. Among its attractions are displays of Georgia’s rare and endangered wildflowers, brought to life through intricate sculptures by artist Trailer McQuilkin. Visitors can also admire the bird paintings by Athos Menaboni, an Italian artist renowned for his detailed depictions of avian life.
Over the years, Callaway Gardens has been visited by numerous notable figures and has played host to events such as the Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament. The gardens continue to serve as a testament to the Callaways’ vision, blending natural beauty with educational experiences.
Today, the center and the broader gardens serve as a reminder of the transformative power of conservation and vision, offering a peaceful retreat where nature and history intertwine.
