The sprawling two-story antebellum home known as The Trotter House looms large, both over East Franklin Avenue in Quitman and in the memories of Clarke County’s citizens. Generations have passed by and marveled at its age, beauty and grandeur, wondering what the interior looks like, and perhaps wishing to host a wedding or party on the property. Now, 170 years after it was first constructed, the home is officially open to the public.
“We’re operating it as a venue for two reasons: first, to meet the substantial maintenance and upkeep costs, and secondly, to make it available to the citizens of Clarke County,” explained Edward Kramer, co-owner of the Trotter House. “We accommodate weddings, receptions, and other small events. The large rooms downstairs are clean and open, ready to be decorated and arranged according to the needs of the client. Upstairs we’ve furnished a bridal suite, dressing room, and bridesmaid suite. Starting in December, the pool house will be available for a groom suite or additional family lodging.”
The Trotter House offers customizable rental options depending on the needs of each event. They are open to all types of events: weddings, wedding showers, baby showers, Christmas parties, retirement receptions, and more. The property also remains available for photography, both indoors and out.
“We either rent by the room or by the floor. If you have a wedding here, then you would be renting the whole property, but if you’re having a shower or something and don’t really need the upstairs or whole house, then we will rent it per room that is needed,” informed Lora Kramer, co-owner of the Trotter House. “We have a three hour minimum on room rentals.”
While the fees include enough tabling and seating for small parties, larger events will require clients to provide their own.
“Right now we can accommodate small events (50 people or less), but anything more than requires externally-sourced tables and chairs. In the future, we plan on increasing that number, but that is one of the reasons our prices are so much lower than other venues right now,” stated Lora. “We do have a good working relationship with Magnolia Tent Rental. They have done a number of events for us and are fabulous! In fact, we’ve worked with many local businesses, like Fantasy Cottage, M&M Florist, Majure’s Jewelry & Gifts, the list goes on. We’re proud to offer something new and exciting that helps build other local businesses and contribute to the economic development of Clarke County.”
The property has a rich history, and its history helped inspire Edward and Lora to open it to the public as a venue.
“The main part of the home was built in 1852 by Brigadier General William Trotter of the Mississippi Militia,” described Edward. “During the Civil War, a relative of George Washington owned the home, and that’s the only reason Sherman’s Union Army left it standing. And we’re grateful they did. Over the years, multiple owners have improved upon and cared for the property. Porches and additions have been added, renovations undertaken, and landscaping performed by local owners such as Dr. Wayne Byrd and Harry & Sarah Wheat. The Trotter House has passed through multiple Clarke County hands over the generations and is truly a labor of love. We seek to continue that tradition and open it up to the citizens of Clarke County and the surrounding areas. If you were born here or lucky enough to move here, you get to use and enjoy this truly unique piece of history and the quintessential piece of Clarke County history.”
Be sure to follow the Trotter House on Facebook to keep up with goings on and view pictures of this beautiful new addition to the Clarke County social scene. To schedule a tour and discuss event packages, , call 601-776-0108, email contact@thetrotterhouse.com, or visit their website the trotterhouse.com.
Take advantage of this Clarke County jewel by booking the next big event at The Trotter House!
