02/20/09

Photo Gallery: Manning Gin Farm

The farm has become a sort of tourist destination or educational historical farm. The buildings located on the farm appear to have been consolidated into one area. A marker exists at the site and is explained below.

Marker text:
Manning Gin Farm c. 1880

In 1851 Solomon Manning purchased 700 acres on this site for $1000. He and Emily raised 8 children and prospered farming cotton and wheat. In 1870 the Civil War took its toll killing 2 sons and many slaves. In 1884 Robert Manning assumed control and built the farmhouse, cotton gin and 16 outbuildings, still intact. The cotton gin operated as Manning Gin Co. from 1904-1945. Robert died without heirs in 1943, leaving the estate to brother Williams' children. Gregg Van Lue purchased the property in 1982 and completed restoration in 1990.