Moonhanger Group and Newtown Macon Partnered to Bring The Woodward Hotel to Downtown Macon

Staff Report

Tuesday, May 24th, 2022

The Moonhanger Group and Newtown Macon have partnered to bring The Woodward Hotel to downtown Macon. The nine-room boutique hotel is located on the corner of Second Street and Mulberry Street Lane, steps away from Macon's best entertainment, dining and culture. 
 
"The Woodward is a one-of-a-kind, entirely locally owned and operated business. Our independent spirit shines in the gorgeous design by Robinson Home and our ability to artfully highlight Macon's contributions to Southern literature," says Sierra Stevens, General Manager. Bibliophiles will enjoy the curated selection of Southern literature and nods to Southern writing incorporated throughout the hotel. Each room is designed to inspire creativity and relaxation. Stevens continues, "Whether or not literature is a guest's passion, the incredible location and well-appointed rooms make The Woodward ideal for anyone who wants to explore our blossoming Southern city."
 
The hotel is also home to Quill, a new craft cocktail bar tucked behind The Woodward on Mulberry Street Lane. Spread out over two floors, the bar offers visitors a choice of experiences. The ground-floor interior's marble bar, wood ceiling, leather, tweed, & velvet seating area are perfect for quiet conversations or meetings. Guests can also choose the rooftop patio where they can sip literature-themed cocktails such as the "Marshes of Glynn" while enjoying the sunset over downtown Macon. 
 
The hotel takes its name from the proprietor's grandfather, Dr. Benjamin Woodward Griffith Jr., a noted professor of English at Mercer University and West Georgia College. He was an educator, folk musician, WWII Navy veteran, and prolific writer - as well as a personal friend of Flannery O'Connor. The property features literature through the lens of Griffith Jr.'s life and work. 
 
"The Moonhanger Group loves to celebrate local history. With this project, we plan to do it by shedding some light on Macon's literary history. Tennessee Williams, Sidney Lanier, Alice Walker, Flannery O'Connor, and John Oliver Killens are just a few of the names with close ties to the city. My grandfather inspired my love of literature, as he did for many in this community while teaching at Mercer University. I'm really excited to keep his memory and passion alive through this project," said Moonhanger owner Wes Griffith.