395 East Main Street             Buford, Georgia 30518

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The History of Bona Allen Mansion

This elegant European style home was built in 1911 by Bona Allen Sr. and family. Bona Allen founded the booming tannery business in Buford in the late 1800’s and was responsible for employing two-thirds of the town’s population. Mr. Allen Sr. became one of the wealthiest men in the Southeast with his company, Bona Allen, Inc. which manufactured everything from horse saddles to shoes & boots. They were best known for their superior saddles and bridles. Their clientele included such noted celebrities as William Cody and Roy Rogers’ horse, Trigger.

Bona Allen, Inc. also had a pennant winning semi-pro baseball team. The Shoemakers won the National Semi-Pro Championship in 1938. In 1944, 3 of its players were named to the Semi-Pro Hall of Fame.

Mr. Allen spared no expense when building his home in Buford . Designed by noted Atlanta architect, Haralson Bleckley, the main house has 17 rooms, twelve foot ceilings, original carved wood paneling, intricate moldings, stained glass windows, and seven fireplaces. The magnificent two story entry showcases an original Italian wall mural of the Castello Villa Franca in South Rome. The mansion is a wonderful example of the "Italianate" style with its cream colored brick and red clay tile roof. The lion sculptures which flank the front steps are replicas of works by renowned sculptor, Antonio Canova (1757-1822). The originals may be found at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The home sits on six walled acres of manicured grounds and gardens with five original out buildings including a carriage house and a caretaker’s cottage. At one point, the Allen’s property included over1700 acres.

Bona Allen Sr. lived in the mansion until his death in 1925. The estate then became home to Bona Allen Jr. who resided there until his death in 1964. The property was purchased in 1968 by the Tandy Corporation who operated the leather goods business until its demise.

In 1981, a fire destroyed the tannery operation. After sitting vacant for several years, the grand estate was purchased by Larry and Doris Bailey of Buford and was completely restored to its original grandeur. Bona Allen Mansion is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

During the 1920’s, 30’s and 40’s, the home was known for the extravagant parties which were held on a regular basis by the Allen’s. In 1995, Bona Allen Mansion was purchased by Douglas Thome who decided to continue the Allen’s tradition of entertaining by making this very special place available for private events. With over twenty years of experience in the catering and special events industry, he and his staff are dedicated to producing some of the finest events in the Southeast. Fine food, professional service, and attention to detail set Bona Allen Mansion apart.  It is their pleasure to take part in creating so many wonderful memories.