This thesis examines the design of antebellum gardens and their social and cultural implications. Its focus is Glenn Mary Plantation located in Hancock County, Georgia. Glenn Mary was the home of Mr. Theophilus J. Smith, a successful businessman, statesman, and planter. It was selected because it is an archetypical example of the aristocratic southern planter class home during a significant period in American history the antebellum South. The purpose of this thesis is to provide guidelines to aide in the reconstruction of the formal garden at Glenn Mary Plantation. The history of formal gardens, Hancock County, antebellum planter class, their gardens, Glenn Mary Plantation and the Smith family are examined in this thesis, resulting in guidelines to aide in the reconstruction of the formal garden at Glenn Mary Plantation.