Sidney Lanier Cottage was purchased by the Middle Georgia Historical Society in 1973,[2] and opened to the public in 1975.

[8] The white frame Victorian home was built in 1840 as a four-room cottage, though it was altered extensively over the years.

[11] The home served as a private residence for many years before its purchase by the Middle Georgia Historical Society in 1973.

[3] Now part of the Macon Historic District, the Sidney Lanier Cottage included various artifacts representing the author's life and work, including the silver alto flute that he used while playing for Baltimore's Peabody Orchestra and first editions of his books.

[12] Also included in the museum was a wedding dress from 1867 that belonged to Mary Day, Lanier's wife, and photographs of the couple.