MERIWETHER COUNTY, GA

County Offices
17234 Roosevelt Highway
Greenville 706-672-1314
https://meriwethercountyga.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
91 Broad Street
Warm Springs 706-655-2558
http://meriwethercountychamber.org/

The celebrated home of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Little White House” and Warm Springs, scenic Meriwether County combines nationally renowned wellness resources with a rare quality of life in welcoming small towns. Newcomers will discover a growing region that excels in balancing country charm and historic preservation with contemporary amenities.

Services
Parents will appreciate the quality educational services and facilities available in Meriwether County, where the public school system provides personalized attention in classrooms with a 14:1 student-teacher ratio. The opportunities for a higher education within a reasonable commute include Beacon University, Columbus Technical College, and Columbus State University in Muscogee County; Clayton State University in Clayton County; Gordon College in Lamar County; Griffin Technical College in Spalding County; LaGrange College and West Georgia Technical College in Troup County; and the State University of West Georgia in Carroll County. Extending the radius to 60 miles from Meriwether County adds an exhaustive list of additional opportunities for higher education in leading colleges and universities as well as career or technical institutes.

Warm Springs Medical Center anchors the state-of-the-art healthcare services and facilities for residents of Meriwether County, combining the patient-centered care of a community hospital with the advancements of a large urban medical center. From the computerized video and photographic equipment in the endoscopy lab to sophisticated laparoscopic surgery options, Warm Springs Medical Center is continually upgrading its resources to ensure excellence in diagnostics and treatment. Along with the new emergency department, the medical center offers a comprehensive Women and Children’s Health Program that includes mammography, menopausal care, prenatal care, and infant delivery. Parents will appreciate the presence of a board-certified Pediatrician’s clinic on the hospital campus and joint community projects like the perinatal transport van and school nurse program.

The Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation is renowned as the most comprehensive rehab facility in the nation, also known as the birthplace of the March of Dimes. Therapeutic recreation is a focal point of the institute, supported by exceptional facilities from an indoor track and 12-acre lake to sports courts and fitness rooms. The Bar Rest Ranch houses the Good Shepherd Therapeutic Center for horseback riding adjacent to the institute and the state park named for Roosevelt.

Lifestyle
Situated between the leading metropolitan centers of Atlanta, Macon and Columbus, rapidly growing Meriwether County is probably best known for Warm Springs and world-class therapeutic resources. Newcomers will find welcoming, small communities where tranquil neighborhoods show pride of ownership and unique attractions dot the cityscape and countryside. The northern section of Meriwether County is staged for economic and industrial growth, sparked by a large automobile manufacturing facility in neighboring Troup County as well as Interstate 85 and expansion of Atlanta suburban sprawl. The southern portion of the county is recognized for its breathtaking natural beauty and brisk tourism industry. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “Little White House” is current operated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and draws more than 100,000 visitors each year. The therapeutic pools used by the President in the 1930s still remain, only part of the elaborate and comprehensive healthcare and wellness services in this region.

Well-preserved historic buildings and sites include the majestic 1904 Meriwether County Courthouse in Neoclassical Revival style, serving the governmental needs of the county for more than a century. Freed slave and self-taught engineer Horace King was responsible for a quaint covered bridge, only one of many picturesque remnants from yesterday. Those who appreciate nature and outdoor adventures can hike Pine Mountain or fish the Flint River. Camping, biking, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, and fishing are all popular pastimes. Downtown renaissances and efforts to participate in the Entrepreneur Friendly Community program are just two hallmarks of the progressive attitude that prevails in rural Meriwether County. From the serenity of the countryside to vibrant new construction, both residential and commercial, Meriwether County is “on the move” to 21st Century distinction.

COMMUNITY PROFILES

Gay
City Offices
706-538-6097
https://gayga.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
706-655-2558
http://meriwethercountychamber.org/

Claiming a rich history dating back to the 1800s, the city of Gay was renamed for William F. Gay when the post office first opened. Formerly a flourishing agricultural area, Gay was a cotton-producing community until the 1930s when large landowners began to plant peach orchards. Today, tourism is the mainstay of the local economy. This small community of primarily retirees who appreciate the small-town atmosphere and quaint architecture of Gay springs to life each year in October and May. Gay welcomes as many as 100,000 visitors to its famous Cotton Pickin’ Fair, where visitors and residents alike enjoy the rustic setting of a 1891 plantation house, the antique warehouse, and old cotton gin. This wildly popular event that also features old-fashioned Southern home cooking and live entertainment, crowned by the Great Gay, Georgia Marketplace, where hundreds of dealers, artisans, and craftsmen display original and unique items for sale. In spite of the popularity of this bi-annual extravaganza, Gay is not resting on its tourism laurels. The city is actively pursuing positive economic development programs including a Main Street revitalization and other enhancements that will exponentially multiply the already powerful appeal of this charming and historic community.

Greenville
City Offices
706-672-1216
https://cityofgreenvillega.nexbillpayonline.com/

Chamber of Commerce
706-655-2558
http://meriwethercountychamber.org/

Named for General Nathaniel Greene from the Revolutionary War, historic Greenville draws newcomers to a friendly and welcoming small-town atmosphere graced by lovely antebellum homes that are listed on state and national historical registers. The crown jewel of the city is the Neoclassical Revival style Meriwether County Courthouse on the town square of Greenville, built in 1904 to replace the original courthouse destroyed by a tornado in 1893. Steeped in historic richness, Greenville provides a warm, friendly hometown environment where preservation of the past is balanced with comfortable and convenient 21st Century living. Residents enjoy all of the recreational and fitness amenities in Meriwether County as well as those in nearby urban centers and sprawling metropolitan cities like Atlanta, Columbus, and Macon. For those who desire the ultimate in yesterday’s charm and Southern with access to the best of contemporary life, Greenville may be the ideal place to call home.

Lone Oak
Town Offices
706-637-9094
https://loneoakga.com/

Chamber of Commerce
706-655-2558
http://meriwethercountychamber.org/

Situated between Hogansville and Luthersville, the tiny town of Lone Oak is currently only one square mile in area. Located at the northern end of Meriwether County, this tiny community is poised to experience the burst of growth and economic expansion that is anticipated for the northern quadrant of the county. Looking toward the future, Loan Oak is already focused on revitalization and infrastructure expansion projects, with plans that include the revitalization and restoration of many older, historic buildings and enhancement of the community’s considerable charm. One of the annual events that draws Lone Oak residents and visitors to the streets for great food and fun is the Lone Oak Arts & Crafts Festival held annually on the first Saturday of November. This festival is growing in popularity and already attracts thousands of visitors to the small community as well as many artistic vendors. Residents enjoy a hometown setting where neighbors greet each other by name but also access to the world-class amenities and attractions of Metro Atlanta and several other major urban centers.

Luthersville
Town Offices
770-927-6885
https://www.luthersville.org/

Chamber of Commerce
706-655-2558
http://meriwethercountychamber.org/

The expansion of industry in and near northern Meriwether County is sure to transform the small town of Luthersville, located just seven miles from a sprawling new industrial park. Although the excitement of growth and expansion has yet to burst into full glory, the first new building in 25 years in Luthersville along Highway 27 is a modest herald of things to come. The entire downtown district is already filled with thriving businesses. As recently as 1999 the town was in danger of losing its charter, but Luthersville refused to give up and has emerged as a thriving and prosperous community with nothing but bright and hopeful prospects for continued economic and residential growth in the future. Touted as one of the greatest success stories of the late 1990s, Luthersville is home to residents who focused on the community spirit that drives success. Located just 13 miles north of the county seat of Greenville near the Coweta County border, Luthersville blends historic charm with a progressive attitude to emerge as one of the county’s fastest-growing communities.

Manchester
City Offices
706-846-3141
https://www.manchester-ga.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
706-655-2558
http://meriwethercountychamber.org/

Known as the “Magic City,” Manchester claims a relatively modest population yet remains one of the county’s largest municipalities. The city’s genesis dates back to the formation of the former ABA (Atlanta, Birmingham, Atlantic) Railroad that partnered with the Callaway Mills from LaGrange to place facilities in Manchester. Today, the city maintains its industrial heritage, carefully balancing the charm of yesterday with contemporary conveniences. Named for Manchester, England, the city nestles in the panoramic foothills of the Pine Mountain range. Progressive and thriving, the city still enjoys a reputation for offering a simple lifestyle balanced with a progressive attitude toward the future. Designated a “Better Hometown” community in 1997, Manchester’s bustling Main Street has replicated the look it offered in the ’30s with renovated brick storefronts, canvas awnings, and original facades. In keeping with its rich historical legacy, the city’s most popular and well-attended Manchester Railroad Days in October. The city has also showcased its historic treasures by constructing the Southeast’s first “rail fan” observation deck overlooking the CSX rail yard, providing exceptional views for photographers and train watchers.

Warm Springs
Village Offices
706-655-9096

Chamber of Commerce
706-655-2558
http://meriwethercountychamber.org/

Located just one hour south of Atlanta, Warm Springs is the hospital epicenter of Meriwether County. Nestled in Georgia’s rolling hills and fresh-water springs, the community is steeped in traditional Southern Charm and gracious hospitality. Benches and rocking chairs line the old-fashioned downtown district, where a medley of boutiques, specialty stores, cafes, and restaurants beckon visitors and residents alike to slow down and savor each moment of the old-fashioned charm. Soothing to the spirit and rejuvenating to the body, Warm Springs offers wellness centers, more than 60 specialty stores, wonderful accommodations, and exceptional dining experiences. The community’s history dates back to the 1800s, crowned as the crown jewel of historical significance for “The Little White House” of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The city’s welcome center is an attraction in itself: A replica of the Old Depot that stood on the ground made famous by President Roosevelt’s many trips to Warm Springs. The city is home to the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute, a nationally acclaimed rehabilitation center, and many famous annual events and celebrations. FDR State Park adds to the appeal of this already charming community.

Woodbury
City Offices
706-553-2011
https://www.cityofwoodburyga.gov/

Chamber of Commerce
706-655-2558
http://meriwethercountychamber.org/

Distinguished as one of Meriwether County’s oldest cities, Woodbury claims a rich history that dates back to 1845. Home to panoramic landscape and a unique blend of industrial and agricultural opportunities. Newcomers to Woodbury will discover many beautiful turn-of-the-century homes, crowned by the former residence of Fred A. Durand, Sr., founder of the Durand Company that manufactured fruit-picking machinery. Today, Woodbury is flourishing and growing. The city has recently completed construction on a new sports complex that provides a wide array of recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. Located just 10 miles from the county seat of Greenville, Woodbury experienced its first boom when the railroad built tracks that changed the face of America. Close proximity to progressive Greenville will no doubt enhance Woodbury’s position as a friendly hometown community that combines reverence for the past with an attitude of acceptance for contemporary progress.