About Orion Hill

The Venue

Orion Hill provides the backdrop of a historic estate framed in lush green acreage, all with the convenience of location – just a few miles outside of Memphis in Arlington, TN. 

Our venue offers grand interior spaces, as well as lavish lawn and lake areas, perfect for wedding ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners, corporate functions and other events. 

History

Orion Hill’s story dates back to the 1830s, when Alexander Donelson, nephew of President and Mrs. Andrew Jackson settled in the area. Here he built a home that was a replica of the Hermitage, including planting the same type of cedar and magnolia trees that line the beautiful driveway. Several generations of his family lived and farmed here until the house burned in the 1920s and the property was eventually sold. The story of this beautiful property was lost over time, and in the 1990s, Dr. and Mrs. Lester Graves built a beautiful Greek revival style home on the site of the original house.

 Present Day

In 2018, Cathy and Don Wilson bought the property from the heirs of Dr. Graves. Researching the history of the site brought to light the historic significance of the property and the Wilson’s, along with their daughter and son-in-law, Shelby and Adam Hartman, decided that this was the perfect setting for an event venue. They kept most of the house in it’s original state but added on the large ballroom to the back of the home. Orion Hill officially opened September 28th, 2019. 

Guided by leadership of the Hartmans and their General Manager Nicki Cunningham, Orion Hill has risen to prominence as one of the premier event venues in the Memphis area. We take pride in sharing this remarkable property and its story with you.