Augmented reality awakens past at Andalusia

Andalusia     Tuesday May 21, 2024
Produced by University Communications

G eorgia College & State University has introduced augmented reality to Andalusia, once home to its famed alumna and popular Southern writer Flannery O’Connor, ’45.

The augmented reality tour begins outside of what once was Flannery O'Connor's home at Andalusia.
The augmented reality tour begins outside of what once was Flannery O'Connor's home at Andalusia.

An interactive, self-guided grounds tour is now available at Andalusia, allowing visitors to scan a QR code, located in the Interpretive Center, with their smartphone for a more in-depth glance into the past. 

“This new feature is on the cutting edge of delivery methods for interpretation in this area,” said Matt Davis, director of Historical Museums at Georgia College. “There’s no need to download an app. We’ve removed as many barriers as possible. Technology without barriers is where we want to be.”

By simply scanning the QR code with their smartphone, guests can pull up information about various aspects of the property. For visitors who don’t own a smartphone, iPads will be provided.

“
This new feature is on the cutting edge of delivery methods for interpretation in this area. There’s no need to download an app. We’ve removed as many barriers as possible. Technology without barriers is where we want to be.
– Matt Davis
”

Not only does written information pop up after scanning the QR code, but guests feel as if they’re at O’Connor’s old farmstead, experiencing the Andalusia of long ago through 3D imagery, panoramic views, videos and sound effects.

As visitors walk through where the Nail House once stood, they get a three-dimensional glimpse of the original structure and hear sounds of animals that were once housed in the pen and run beside it.

BES Studios gives us a look behind the scenes of creating the 3D imagery of what once was the Nail House. The company partnered with ARtGlass.

When visitors return home, their Andalusia experience continues. They can resume learning about O’Connor’s home and the grounds long after they leave with a tap of their phone.

Tours guided by docents will continue inside O’Connor’s home. This provides visitors with the traditional interpretive experience at Andalusia, while giving Georgia College students experiential learning opportunities. 

“This value-added upgrade, funded by donors, is a remarkable way for guests to interact with Andalusia,” Davis said. “We hope everyone comes to experience Andalusia in 3D.” 

Georgia College partnered with BES Studios and ARtGlass to create the tour.

To learn more, visit Andalusia’s tour website, call 478.445.8722. Scan the QR code located in the Interpretive Center for the self-guided tour of the grounds when visiting Andalusia.