Mr. W. J. Donaldson built this historical two-story home in the mid 1870’s just following the end of the Civil War. The house was originally painted white, surrounded by a white picket fence, and nestled on the corner of Chamblee-Dunwoody and Vermack Road. Members of the Donaldson family, including patriarch W. J. Donaldson, are buried in the small  family cemetery located on the north side of the property. The property originally featured eight outbuildings including a blacksmith shop, a three-stall barn,  washhouse, well, and commissary.

Following the death of Mr. Donaldson’s third wife in 1935, his heirs divided the property for sale. Mrs. Lois Bannister purchased the home as a summer home, adding electricity, running water, and oversaw the construction of several additions to the original structure. After the passing of Mrs. Bannister the property had several owners, but eventually became the home of David and Linda Chesnut in 1975. 

To learn more about the Donaldson-Bannister Farm and other historic properties please visit the Dunwoody Preservation Trust website. www.dunwoodypreservationtrust.org