Thistledome was built in 1840, and is one of the few antebellum houses remaining in Byhalia. Thistledome was built by Joseph Chalmers, who settled in the area from South Carolina. His son, James Ronald Chalmers, was a General in the Confederacy during the Civil War. E.B. Horn purchased the home from the Chalmers family in 1906 and extensively renovated the house. The McAuleys bought the house in 1938. The house received its name from Mrs. McAuley, who stated “This will do me” when she first saw her new home. Todd and Jill Maxwell bought the house in 2012, and have opened a restaurant in the home and offer wedding and special event services.
Thistledome is a rare Greek Revival home in Byhalia, and sits on a prominent hill on the south side of town. It is a two-story frame building with a front gable porch supported by great Corinthian fluted columns which sit on brick piers. A first story porch is supported by double Doric columns and a spindle balustrade. The main entrance has an elliptical transom and painted pane sidelights.
Hill Country History 