Rental of the Sexton's House

A fee of $250 is charged for a two-hour reception. This fee includes access one hour before (for setup) and thirty minutes after the reception (for cleanup).

A docent from Oconee Hill Cemetery will be on the property throughout the event to answer questions or handle any requests. If a caterer is used, the family needs to negotiate the cost and payment for the reception directly with the caterer. Athens has numerous fine caterers as well as many local restaurants that provide catering services.

For information about reserving the Sexton's House, please contact the cemetery's sexton at 706.543.6262. The house may also be reserved through any local funeral home.


Guidelines for Use of the House

  • When using the house, please remember that much of the furniture is antique and care must be used to protect it.
  • Smoking and the use of any open flame, including candles or a grill, are strictly prohibited throughout the house and on all porches.
  • The kitchen has a microwave oven and commercial refrigerator. No ovens for cooking are in the property.
  • Ice, serving dishes and utensils, and supplies for cleanup must be provided by the caterers or persons renting the house; these items also include paper towels and trash bags.
  • All excess food must be removed from the kitchen, and all refuse must be removed from the premises.
  • A padded protective mat is provided for the reception tables in the dining room and must be in use during the event.
  • Any surfaces in the house may be used for flowers, food, or beverages. However, mats and or tablecloths must be placed on the surfaces of all pieces of furniture to protect them from damage. Keep in mind that much of the furniture is antique.
  • Equipment failure, maintenance issues, or breakage should be reported to the docent on duty.