Author: Lacey Cummings

As you explore Georgia’s Trail of Legacy & Lore, 2025 brings several important anniversaries that highlight the rich history, culture, and creativity found along the way. From literary legacies and historic visits to artistic milestones, these anniversaries invite visitors to experience the stories that shaped the region.

Athens, Georgia

50th Anniversary of the Juried Exhibition at Lyndon House Arts Center

In 2025, the Lyndon House Arts Center will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of its Juried Exhibition, a cornerstone event in Athens’ vibrant arts scene. Taking place March 13 – May 10, 2025, this milestone exhibition invites visual artists from across the Athens area to submit works in all media for consideration.

The juror for the 2025 exhibition is Michael Rooks, Wieland Family Senior Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at Atlanta’s High Museum of Art. Renowned for his commitment to fostering community engagement and making art accessible to all, Rooks brings deep expertise and vision to this special anniversary event. The exhibition will kick off with an opening reception, where attendees can meet the juror and experience the exceptional creativity of local artists.

Oconee County, Georgia

Oconee County’s 150th Anniversary

Established in 1875, Oconee County marks 150 years in 2025. Once a rural farming community carved from Clarke County, Oconee has grown into a destination known for its scenic countryside, strong schools, and vibrant communities. Anniversary events will celebrate the county’s history, from its early agricultural roots to its present-day growth and development.

Madison, Georgia

Madison’s 75th Tour of Homes

The Madison Tour of Homes celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025, with the Spring Tour set for May 16-17. What began in 1950, organized by Miss Kittie Newton and the La Flora Garden Club, has become a beloved tradition, showcasing the architectural charm and historic preservation efforts that define Madison. Visitors can step inside some of Madison’s most beautiful historic homes, connecting with the stories they hold.

35 Years as a Tree City USA in Madison

2025 also marks 35 years since Madison was first recognized as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. The designation reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to tree care, green spaces, and environmental stewardship. A joint statement from the Madison Mayor and City Council encourages residents to “plant trees to gladden the hearts and promote the well-being of future generations.”

25 Years of the Madison-Morgan Conservancy

The Madison-Morgan Conservancy celebrates 25 years of conservation and preservation work in 2025. Through the protection of 6,000+ acres of land, historic properties, and natural resources, the Conservancy has fostered a strong culture of environmental stewardship in Morgan County. Educational programs like the Junior Conservancy ensure future generations continue this legacy of protecting farms, forests, and historic landmarks.

Milledgeville, Georgia

Flannery at 100

In 2025, Milledgeville will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Flannery O’Connor, one of Georgia’s most celebrated writers. O’Connor spent much of her life at Andalusia Farm, where she wrote many of her acclaimed works. To honor her legacy, Flannery at 100 will feature a year-long celebration, including special programs, guided tours, rotating exhibits, and literary lectures that delve into her life, creative process, and lasting influence on Southern literature. Visitors will have exclusive access to rarely-seen artifacts, personal items, and original manuscripts while exploring O’Connor’s favorite spaces on the farm. The celebration will also include author panels, creative writing workshops, public readings, and art installations that bring new perspectives on her work. The year-long event invites both lifelong admirers and new readers to immerse themselves in the world of Flannery O’Connor, whose writing continues to captivate and influence generations.

200th Anniversary of General Lafayette’s Visit

2025 commemorates the 200th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s historic tour of the United States, which included stops in several communities along Georgia’s Trail of Legacy & Lore. Lafayette, a hero of the American Revolution, visited the area in 1825 to celebrate the young nation’s progress and thank citizens for their support during the war.

Select cities in Georgia will honor the anniversary of General Lafayette’s visit with a series of events in Milledgeville, Gray, and Macon. On March 26, Milledgeville will kick off the celebration with a grand ceremony at Georgia’s Old Capitol Building, followed by reenactments, a wreath-laying at Memory Hill Cemetery, and a reception at Rose Hill Mansion. On March 27, Gray will host a parade from Butler Hall to the Jones County Courthouse gazebo, ending with a reception. The festivities conclude on March 28 in Macon, with a grand parade and dedication of a Lafayette historical marker, all part of the city’s Cherry Blossom Festival. These events honor Lafayette’s lasting impact on American liberty and Georgia’s Revolutionary history.

Experience History and Creativity Along the Trail

From literary landmarks and civic celebrations to art exhibitions and historic preservation efforts, 2025 offers countless opportunities to experience the stories that shaped Georgia’s Trail of Legacy & Lore. Whether you’re exploring a historic home, enjoying local art, or walking tree-lined streets, these anniversaries connect visitors to the heart of Georgia’s cultural and historical legacy.

Plan your visit and join in celebrating these special milestones along Georgia’s Trail of Legacy & Lore

Milledgeville, Georgia, is a town steeped in history, culture, and undeniable charm. Originally designed as Georgia’s fourth capital city, which it served from 1807 to 1868, the town was laid out in a grid formation. Its oak-lined streets whisper stories of the past, reflected in the antebellum architecture, intricate wrought iron details, and historic churches. Discover the town once home to one of the most notable Southern Gothic writers and seized during Sherman’s March to the Sea. Today, Milledgeville serves as the backdrop to picturesque college campuses, a vibrant downtown, and a haven for those seeking a leisurely vacation. It’s a place where the past and the future coexist, offering innovative cuisine, thrilling adventures, and emerging artists alongside beautifully preserved antebellum homes and storied streets.

History Awaits

Andalusia: Home of Flannery O’Connor

Southern Gothic writer Flannery O’Connor is celebrated as one of America’s greatest short-story authors. Her literary works were shaped by her struggles with lupus, her Catholic faith, and her home at Andalusia Farm. O’Connor lived on the farm from 1951 until her passing in 1964, during which she penned the majority of her stories. In 1980, the farm was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Andalusia was bequeathed to Georgia College in 2017, who has since developed the Andalusia Interpretive Center, displaying artifacts spanning the land’s history since its establishment dating back to 1814.

Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion

Milledgeville was Georgia’s capital city for over 60 years and in 1839, Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion was completed, serving as the residence for the state’s chief executives. The grand estate, noted as an example of High Greek Revival architecture, was claimed by General William T. Sherman during his “March to the Sea” in 1864 and acted as his headquarters. The home was given to Georgia College in 1889, then called the Georgia Normal & Industrial College. Today, the Mansion is open for tours, Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Heritage Hall & Rare Book Room

Notable artifacts, documents, and archives are meticulously preserved and displayed within Heritage Hall at Georgia College. The repository encompasses historic and cultural elements from Milledgeville/Baldwin County and surrounding areas. The Special Collections Gallery within Heritage Hall is the home to the Flannery O’Connor Gallery of Southern Literary Works, the Golden Slipper Award, and displays dedicated to journalist Julia Flisch, Pulitzer Prize winner Alice Walker, and Milledgeville’s contributions to music. Just steps away, the Rare Book Room offers a glimpse into historic manuscripts, papers, and books, making it a treasure trove for literature enthusiasts.

Trolley Tours

Uncover Milledgeville’s rich history on a trolley tour. The Historic Trolley Tour offers an hour-long journey through downtown and the Statehouse Square, home to Georgia’s Old Capitol Building and St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church. For a unique perspective into one of Milledgeville’s most notable landmarks, the Central State Hospital Campus Trolley Tour provides a two-hour exploration of what was once the world’s largest mental institution. Led by a former hospital employee, the tour reveals fascinating insights into a site that once served over 12,000 patients and employed 6,000 staff members.

Walking Tours

Stroll through history with the town’s self-guided Historic Walking Tour. Pick up a brochure at the Milledgeville Visitor’s Center to explore over 40 preserved structures, from Milledgeville Federal-style homes to Victorian, Greek, and Classical Revival designs. Number five on the tour, Memory Hill Cemetery, serves as the final resting place of notable figures like Congressman Carl Vinson, Flannery O’Connor, and L.Q.C. Lamar. An additional self-guided walking tour begins at the cemetery’s gazebo and highlights 47 points of interest throughout the grounds. Brochures for the tour are available at the gazebo. 

Outdoor Adventures

Beyond downtown’s historic charm, Milledgeville offers scenic outdoor escapes. Lake Sinclair, created in 1953, boasts 15,300 acres of serene waters perfect for relaxation, adventure, and family fun. At Lockerly Arboretum, history and recreation converge. The centerpiece, Rose Hill, a National Register-listed 1852 Greek Revival home, is surrounded by 50 acres of gardens, walking trails, and a picturesque pond. The Oconee River Greenway provides another natural retreat, with trails, boardwalks, and riverside paths for walking, running, or picnicking. For a more adventurous experience, local outfitters offer kayaking and canoeing along the river, and jet skiing or boating on the lake.

Unexpected Dining

Milledgeville’s dining scene offers an exciting contrast to its historic surroundings, blending bold flavors and innovative culinary concepts. Start your culinary adventure at Bollywood Tacos, where Mexican and Indian fusion dishes create an unforgettable dining experience. If you’re craving fresh, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, Metropolis Café serves up authentic dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Kai Thai offers a diverse menu of traditional Thai dishes and beautifully crafted sushi rolls, providing a unique and flavorful dining experience. Finally, Greene’s puts a modern spin on classic Southern comfort food, reimagining beloved dishes with innovative twists.

Milledgeville is a destination where history, culture, and modern life come together to create an experience unlike any other. From exploring the legacy of iconic writers to strolling oak-lined streets filled with architectural beauty, Milledgeville invites you to uncover its stories. Whether you’re diving into its rich past, savoring its diverse dining, or enjoying its scenic outdoor spaces, this vibrant town promises unforgettable moments. Start planning your trip to Milledgeville today and see why it continues to captivate the hearts of visitors.