Reigning majestically over East Robert Toombs Avenue is this historic home, an exquisitely renovated southern mansion graced with massive fluted columns, the largest in historic Washington.  Many prominent and interesting people have called this place "home" including Mr. and Mrs. Louis Dugas, French refugees; the Wingfield's (James who is believed to have begun the existing house came from Virginia in the early 1780's with his brothers John and Thomas); and Charles Bolton (a wealthy merchant who purchased the home sometime in the early 1800's and added the upper story). In a newspaper column it was stated that the Bolton sons were great sportsmen "and one never seemed to pass the place without seeing horses, grooms and stylish vehicles." The side door under a small portico was called the "riding door", Rev. James B. Dunwoody added the columns in 1860 (a Presbyterian minister who performed the wedding ceremony for Miss Bullock and Mr. Roosevelt, the parents of President Theodore Roosevelt ).

The home and columns are constructed of virgin bald cypress from the Augusta cypress swamps. It was here the famous physician, Louis Alexander Dugas was born in 1806 and whose history and attainments (one among many being a founder of the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta) are recorded on a historical marker placed on the premises by the Georgia Historical Commission.

Totally renovated top to bottom in 2018 by the current owners, Pleasant Shade boasts 5,590 square feet with 6 spacious bedrooms and 5 and one-half baths.  There are two primary suites on the main level with 4 additional Bedrooms/3 full baths upstairs as well a second floor library with interesting entry door. An expansive wide center hall stretches upstairs and downstairs. The main level consist of gorgeous proportioned double parlors flanking each side of the entry foyer with exquisite moldings, a large banquet/dining hall (16 x 28), amazing kitchen, side sunroom and the two primary suites.... all renovated and brought up to modern standards for today’s lifestyle of comfort and efficiency. Dual fueled central HVAC, maximum insulation, top of the line appliances, gas range, central vac system and much, much more. New electrical, new plumbing, new roof, new baths, new kitchen.... no expense spared.

Southern elegance at its finest as soaring Greek Revival columns invite guests in and welcome you home.  Random width pine floors glisten, fireplaces adorned with mantles bring warmth to most every room (including the kitchen) and wonderful original oversized paned windows (front are floor to ceiling) serve to brighten and flood the home with natural light.

The grounds of 1.63 acres are beautiful with mature magnolias, pecan and other trees, flowering shrubs, perimeter iron-style black fencing (over 400 ft) and brick lighted entries. There is also a newly constructed three car detached garage and other out buildings on the property.

Nestled along one of the town’s main historic avenues, Pleasant Shade, enduring the test of time, still stands tall and proud. The home is within walking distance of the historic Town Square, restaurants, cafes, shops, museums and the oldest public library in the state. Historic Washington is steeped in history and charm;  located an easy drive to Athens, Georgia (40 miles), Augusta, Georgia (50 miles), other southern towns (Greensboro/Lake Oconee) and close proximity to some of the state’s largest major lakes and parks. 100 Miles east of Atlanta, Georgia via I-20.