Barbara Mandrell’s Former Estate became a tourist destination and then closed in 2019. Tennessee is the epicenter of tourism when it comes to the country music genre and its rich history. With so many past and present country music artists calling The Volunteer State home, it’s easy to see why country music fanatics flock to the region. One location that has become a favorite destination for sightseers is Barbara Mandrell‘s Fontanel Mansion and Farm.
The Story Behind Fontanel
Named after the soft spot on a baby’s head, Fontanel Mansion was built in 1988 as a family sanctuary for Barbara Mandrell, her husband Ken Dudney, and their children. The estate spans a massive 136 acres of lush Tennessee countryside, providing both privacy and space for recreation.
At the time of its construction, Fontanel was one of the largest log homes in the country, boasting a rustic yet elegant charm that perfectly suited Mandrell’s love of country living. After retiring from her music career in 1997, Mandrell decided to sell the property in 2002, passing it into the hands of new owners who transformed it into a major tourist destination.
The mansion comes in at three stories tall and features over 27,000 square feet of space. Investors Dale Morris and Marc Oswald bought the property when the Mandrell family moved away in 2002. The home began to gain fame as a premier Nashville attraction in 2010 after renovations transformed the estate into a dazzling Tennessee establishment.
Mandrell’s former retreat is located in Whites Creek, Tennessee, and features a hotel, the Natchez Hill Winery, and the Fontanel Records music venue. Interestingly enough, the country star dubbed the mansion “Fontanel” after the name for the soft spot located on top of a baby’s head because she believed this home to be a “soft spot” for her family. Suitably, Mandrell’s daughter, Jamie, served as the director of hospitality at the transformed property.
Here is a photo of the breathtaking estate below!
Barbara Mandrell’s Former Estate
While this venue offers an abundance of fun and entertainment, it also offers a huge amount of country music history. Mandrell family memorabilia lines the walls of the mansion and feature artists such as the Eagles, Buck Owens and Alabama, you know, just in case you didn’t think this estate was already incredible enough.
What Happened to Fontanel?
In 2019, Fontanel closed its doors to the public. The estate was sold once again, and new development plans were announced. While some parts of the property have been reimagined for private use and residential projects, Fontanel’s legacy as Barbara Mandrell’s beloved home remains an important part of country music history. The complex was purchased by Chicago-based BlueRoad Ventures for $14.5 million in February 2019.
Make sure to share this place with other country music and Barbara Mandrell fans!
