George Jones “Two Story House!”

George Jones “Two Story House!”

George Jones "Two Story House!"

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Headlines in newspapers across the nation told of country singer George Jones death on April 26th. But the headline that described it best was the Los Angeles Times, that said "George Jones was the Voice of Heartbreak." It’s true. Here was a man known for ripping one’s heart out at the roots, and he did it better than almost anyone. His songs came from the heart because they came from his own life of emotional hardship. When he married Tammy Wynette, the third marriage for both, his music seemed to perk up a bit with some honky tonk and fast moving ditties like We’re Not The Jet Set and I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair. Considered to be the king and queen of country music, the couple rose to fame and were enjoyed by ". . .members of the Chevrolet set" as well as so many other lovers of country music.

Together they bought their Two Story House shortly after they were married in 1969. For as long as she could remember, Tammy had dreamed of one day living in a southern mansion very much like Tara in Gone with the Wind. In 1971, Tammy told the Tampa Tribune, "This is the home for us . . It’s the only place we want to be." Later in George’s autobiography, he wrote that in this house "I was happier than I’d ever been."

All that came to an end with George’s boozing and drugging and the loud parties that turned once friendly neighbors into adversaries. They moved out in 1972 since the constant complaints made them feel that they couldn’t live with the freedom they wanted. Divorce eventually came for the couple in 1975.

Though the house was originally built in 1902 in downtown Lakeland by lumber company owner H.B. Carter, it was later moved to the outskirts of Lakeland by a subsequent owner. While still owned by Carter, it is said that notables such as Thomas Edison and Teddy Roosevelt were entertained at this historic home.

The neo-classical colonnaded home is the epitome of the deep south mansion that makes one think immediately of Tara. Within its 4,412 square feet are found 4 bedrooms, 6 baths, media room, fireplaces, a newly updated kitchen with all the bells and whistles, a detached 2-car garage, guitar-shaped pool, spa, pool deck, porch and decks. Also on the property is a stable with 4 oversized stalls, feed room, tack room, office and half bath. A fenced dressage practice area is attached.

"There's chandeliers in every room, imported silks and satin all about. We filled the house with everything but somehow left love out.". . . Lyrics from George & Tammy 's hit single Two Story House. During their residence, George wrote two hit songs, Two Story House and The Grand Tour, both about the estate they called the Old Plantation Music Park.

George Jones and Tammy Wynette’s former dream home in Lakeland, Florida reduced from $2.3 million to $1.95 million.

Source: orlandowinterpark.evusa.com