Washington blends heritage, community and rural traditions in Georgia
In the heart of Washington, Georgia, an ornate Romanesque Revival-style courthouse showcases a white and black clock tower. The early 20th-century building has been on the National Register of Historic Places for decades. "Washington is a town that has a really vibrant mix of communities. People really connect with this town. Some people have grown up here and their families have been here for generations," says Alyson Vuley, the Executive Director of the Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce. "We also have the newcomers who move here from all over. I, myself, am a newcomer. We have a third group of people who have moved away and come back. It's a meaningful place that speaks to people when they come here." The city honors its past while providing residents with modern conveniences as the seat of Wilkes County. The area offers community events, varied architecture and a lively downtown. "Mule Day has been around for [about] 45 years as a celebration of rural agriculture. It's connected to our heritage because of George Washington, for whom the town was named. He was the father of the American mule. He was the first breeder of mules and was a big proponent of the use of mules in agriculture."
Historic homes and brick ranch-style houses as well as weather risks
Washington's residential roadways display many homes with paved walkways leading to columned front porches and brick steps. The area's architecture includes various options, from well-maintained century-old homes and cottages to brick ranch styles. Buyers will find lots on multiple acres with room for homesteads and farmhouses. There are also dwellings with Victorian and colonial influences. Move-in-ready houses typically cost between $125,000 and $470,000. However, a few larger historical homes may list for as much as $950,000.
The area is susceptible to wind damage from tropical storms and hurricanes, which have previously affected homes. Wilkes County also has a minor risk of flooding.
Local businesses and eateries thrive in and beyond downtown
Residents often walk or bike along the streets in downtown. The historic city center has long-standing brick buildings occupied by retail shops, boutiques and eateries. "We have incredible food in Washington, from Chela's Kitchen to Dena's Seafood", Vuley says. Washington Tavern is popular for its wings, burgers and cold drinks. More commerce is beyond the heart of the city. Businesses like Smith Farm Supply Washington and Burdette Mill & Gin Inc. support local agriculture. Locals can shop for groceries at Terry's IGA and Ingles Markets.
Mule Day and other events
The city holds a range of public gatherings throughout the year. "Mule Day is a great event that brings people in, not just from our county but across the state. We have mule demonstrations [as well as] crafts and food vendors. It's held at Callaway Historic Site," Vuley says. "We also have historical interpreters on site who show us blacksmithing, pine needle basket weaving and lace making. It's always the second Saturday in October." The Chamber supports gatherings by local civic groups, such as the Washington Wilkes Historical Foundation, which hosts the Tour of Homes event. The Freedom Fireworks Extravaganza is in July.
Churches, emergency care and highways serve the community
There are several houses of worship in and around the area. "We have beautiful historic churches. Jackson Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church was founded in 1867 by a group of formerly enslaved people. It still has an active congregation," Vuley says. Wills Memorial Hospital offers a 24-hour emergency room. Wilkes County Transit does not operate fixed routes; however, residents may arrange transportation within the county by scheduling trips at least one day in advance. Most commuters travel by car. State Route 17 and Highways 78 and 378 bring drivers to nearby communities. The nearest Interstate 20 interchange is about 20 miles to the south. Augusta Regional Airport, roughly 60 miles away, connects travelers to major airports nationwide.
The square and nearby parks provide space to relax
Next to the Washington Wilkes Parks and Recreation Department, off Lexington Avenue, there are multiple athletic fields for youth sports. Washington Square is a downtown space with iron benches, grassy spots for picnics and a central stone fountain. Reese Booker Center and Park has a playground, basketball court and open field. Destinations like Robert Toombs House Historic Site and Washington Historical Museum show the area's past. Locals can kayak down the Little River from an access point on Wrightsboro Road, about 10 miles from town.
All of the county's schools are in town
Washington-Wilkes Primary is open to children in kindergarten through third grade. The school has a B-minus rating on Niche. Washington-Wilkes Elementary receives a C-plus, and Washington-Wilkes Middle has a B. Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High has a B-plus. North Alexander School, the area's first public school, opened in 1897. The site is currently being restored and serves as the main office for the Wilkes County Board of Education.
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
