OLD EDWARDS HOSPITALITY GROUP

In 1935, Minnie Edwards and her husband, Will, constructed Hotel Edwards using the old Rock Store as its foundation. Designed by architect Linton H. Young, the brick-and-rock structure brought a classical elegance to Highlands. Minnie managed both Hotel Edwards and the original Central House.

As interest in hotel operations waned among the Edwards family, and attempts to convert the property into shops fell short, Hotel Edwards closed its doors. The once-thriving inn sat dormant for nearly two decades.

Rip and Pat Benton, proprietors of Blanche’s Courtyard Inn on St. Simon’s Island, Georgia, purchased and renovated the long-shuttered hotel in 1982. Their restoration revived both Central House and Hotel Edwards, preserving their historical charm while preparing them for a new generation of guests.

Art and Angela Williams of Palm Beach, Florida, purchased the property and began a transformative $150+ million expansion. This new era brought the addition of The Lodge at Old Edwards (formerly Kelsey Hutchinson Lodge), the world-class Spa at Old Edwards, The Farm event venue, and an Executive Conference Center. Madison’s Restaurant was renovated and named after their granddaughter, anchoring the culinary identity of the property.

The Williams acquired Highlands Cove Golf Club and invested $8 million to transform it into the private Old Edwards Club. This expansion further elevated the resort experience, offering guests world-class golf and additional gathering spaces.

This chapter saw the debut of Falls Cottages, adding 26 luxury guestrooms and outdoor amenities including a saltwater pool and whirlpool, outdoor fireplace, and the Springhouse venue. The Spa Café opened, along with Art’s at the Lodge coffee and cocktail bar, and two historic guest residences were added to the portfolio.

On June 14, 2024, James Whitley of Athens, Georgia, acquired Old Edwards Hospitality Group from the Williams family. James, Co-Founder and COO of Landmark Properties, brings a vision for the future grounded in design, development, and luxury hospitality. His portfolio includes The Old Edwards Reserve at Lake Keowee and Rivet House, a boutique hotel in Athens, Georgia.

Built by John Norton at the corner of 4th & Main, Central House was one of the first boarding houses in Highlands. It changed hands several times before being managed by David and Martha “Mattie” Norton—Uncle Dave and Aunt Mat—whose hospitality established the house as a welcoming retreat.