In the heart of southern Middle Tennessee lies a historic home affectionately called “Maggie” by its current caretakers, Lindsey and John Michael Kennedy. What began as a casual visit to a friend’s farmhouse turned into a life-changing journey to restore and preserve a piece of history. For the Kennedys, Maggie represents more than a home; it’s a legacy, a tangible link to the past that they are determined to honor and maintain for generations to come.
The Kennedys first encountered Maggie through the Baird family, longtime stewards of the house and descendants of Blake Rutland, whose name is woven into local history. Lindsey recalls being invited to tour the property after lunch one Sunday. “We fell in love with the house and its legacy, not knowing how it would change our lives,” she says. The connection was immediate, and as they walked through the grand yet weathered halls of the home, they felt a deep pull to become its next caretakers.
Originally built in 1898 by Herschel P. Cawthon, the Folk Victorian-style farmhouse was once part of a 200-year-old Century Farm used for corn and cattle. The 2,700-square-foot home retains many of its original features, including pine tongue-and-groove floors, a statement staircase, a stunning wraparound porch, and 23 eight-foot windows with handblown glass. “The craftsmanship is unmatched,” Lindsey shares. Each detail of the home tells a story—the gentle creak of the floorboards, the intricate woodwork framing the doors, the perfectly imperfect glass panes that have stood the test of time.
The Kennedys live in the home full-time, honoring its history while making it their own. They lovingly named the house after Herschel’s wife, Margaret, affectionately known as Maggie. “The name felt right,” Lindsey says. “It’s a tribute to the love and life this home has witnessed.” They view themselves as stewards rather than owners, embracing the responsibility of preserving its story.
While preserving the home’s historic charm, the Kennedys have introduced modern updates, including plumbing and electricity. Their unique approach to restoration, which they call “reorigination,” blends original craftsmanship with thoughtful, functional improvements. “We’re not just renovating; we’re preserving the architectural features that make this house special while ensuring it meets today’s needs,” Lindsey explains. Every decision is made with care, ensuring that the home’s soul remains intact even as they bring it into the 21st century.
Restoring Maggie has come with its fair share of challenges. “Building a house sometimes feels like doing everything inside out,” Lindsey laughs. “Timelines and financials are always unpredictable, but the best things take time and hard work.” Unexpected hurdles often arise, from uncovering structural issues to navigating the complexities of maintaining historic integrity. But despite the obstacles, the process has brought the couple even closer. “John Michael is the carpenter, and I’m the designer,” Lindsey says. “It’s been an incredible journey of teamwork, problem-solving, and, at times, a few tears.”
One of Lindsey’s favorite additions to their home has been creating space for barn cats to roam the property. “Finally having space for them has been a dream come true,” she says. The cats have quickly become part of the charm of the home, weaving through the gardens and lounging on the sun-drenched porches, as if they, too, have claimed Maggie as their own.
The Kennedys’ journey has captured attention beyond their local community. A production company discovered them through Instagram, leading to their feature in Season 7, Episode 8 of Magnolia Network’s In With the Old. Lindsey hopes the episode inspires others to restore historic homes. “We wanted to be advocates for saving old houses and show people they can do it too, one step at a time,” she says. The process of restoration is not just about bringing an old house back to life; it’s about storytelling, about giving a second chance to a place filled with history and heart.
Despite their growing audience, the Kennedys plan to keep Maggie a private residence. “This house is our haven,” Lindsey explains. “We have no plans to rent it out or turn it into a business. We’re thrilled to continue living here, preserving its history while building our future.” To them, Maggie is more than an architectural gem; it is a place of comfort, of belonging, and of continuity in a world that is constantly changing.
For Lindsey and John Michael, Maggie is more than just a home—it’s a testament to resilience, craftsmanship, and love. “We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be stewards of this property,” Lindsey says. “It’s an honor to preserve it for future generations and for those who feel connected to its history.” They understand that they are merely one chapter in the house’s long story, and they take pride in adding their own mark while respecting the pages that came before them.
To follow their journey, visit www.reorigination.com or @reorigination on Instagram and Facebook. While it is a private residence, the Kennedys welcome anyone inspired by their story to connect with them online and join a growing community of old-home enthusiasts keeping history alive. Whether you are an experienced restorer or simply a dreamer who loves the charm of historic homes, Maggie’s story is sure to inspire a deeper appreciation for the past and the potential within old walls.
“The name felt right,” Lindsey says. “It’s a tribute to the love and life this home has witnessed.”