Putnam In a series showcasing Southern
Porches of
hospitality, the Eatonton-Putnam
Chamber of Commerce visits some of
the most inviting front porches in its
community, beginning with the historic
Panola Hall.
Story and photography by
Lacey Cummings, Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce
FALL 2021 | LAKE OCONEE LIVING 63
Making a Home of a
Hall
A few years ago, Michael
and Diana Homeier began thinking about
moving out of Los Angeles, California
where they lived for many years. Michael,
a lawyer, and Diana, a doctor, were ready
to “slow their lives down” in a southern,
small-town. Panola was one of many
historic homes the Homeiers looked at
across the southern United States and they
decided to go all-in on the home in October
of 2019.
When asked about why they chose Panola
Hall over any of their other prospects, they
both noted the community that is behind
the town and the prospects of growth in
the area. Diana specifically stated that she
could not explain the home and the community’s
feeling other than an overall “welcoming
and comforting feeling.” The home
itself has no choice but to be welcoming;
the many tall windows in every room let
ample light in. Lined with heartwood
pine floors, the echo of footsteps carries
through the house, carrying the ambiance
of the historic Eatonton home. Since
purchasing the home, they partnered with
multiple local contractors and artisans to
begin the process of restoring the home to
its original grandeur. The projects, includ-