North Augusta Christmas Tour of Homes Returns Dec. 4-5

The historic Edwardian home at 708 Carolina Ave. in North Augusta, built in 1902 and featuring original wavy glass windows, will open to the public during the annual North Augusta Christmas Tour of Homes on Dec. 4-5, with proceeds funding student scholarships.

A century of local history is opening its doors just in time for the holidays. The North Augusta Christmas Tour of Homes will return Dec. 4-5, supporting North Augusta High School students with scholarships.

Candlelight Tours Visit the Historic 1902 Edwardian Home

A candlelight tour will take place from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Dec. 4, with the tour continuing from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 5. The Edwardian home at 708 Carolina Ave. was built in 1902 for Katie Sample and her family.

Over the decades, the Sample, Melvin, and Douglas families left a quiet imprint on the residence. The James family purchased the property in 2011 and spent five years returning it to its original glory. Visitors stepping inside will encounter an inviting foyer featuring a grand staircase, twin parlors connected by original pocket doors, and a dining room designed for long Christmas dinners.

The upstairs level offers four bedrooms and custom bathrooms. Throughout the house, original wavy glass windows and hearths serve as prominent architectural points of interest.

Tour Stops Fund Scholarships and the Arts and Heritage Center

Along with the James home, the tour showcases several other properties. These include the homes of Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Timmerman and Mr. and Mrs. Chris Key in Windtree, the home of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Kibler on West Arlington, and the home of Mr. and Mrs. James Baggott on Slash Court.

The Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta serves as an additional stop, offering galleries, a gift shop, refreshments, and holiday music.

Proceeds from the Christmas Tour of Homes fund scholarships for North Augusta High School graduates, with an additional contribution going to the Arts and Heritage Center. Approximately $240,000 has been given to high school graduates since the tour began.

Purchase Tour Tickets in Advance or at Tour Stops

Tour tickets are on sale now and may be purchased in advance until 2 p.m. Dec. 4. All persons touring, including children in arms, must have a ticket. Advanced tickets cost $25 and are available at the Arts and Heritage Center, CommuniGraphics, and Parks Pharmacy in North Augusta; Consign Design in Martinez, Georgia; and Plum Pudding in Aiken.

Tickets can also be purchased online for $28 plus a $3 convenience fee at natourofhomes.org from now until Dec. 2. Tickets purchased on tour days cost $30 at any tour stop. Cash or checks are required for ticket purchases at local businesses and tour stops.

Worth a look