Brooks County adds yet another dimension to South Georgia, boasting Quitman as the county seat. Distinctive for its heritage of community sprit, genuine neighborliness is infectious. The “Camellia City” blossoms with the fragrant scents of hospitality and elegant splendor from the riot of surrounding color of camellias, azaleas and a vast array of glorious flowers. This “bedroom community,” offers those tired of the hustle and bustle of over populated cities an alternative. Quitman maintains a pleasant balance; it is close to the sophistication and services of Valdosta, yet residents enjoy a hometown lifestyle of unhurried grace.

A well-diversified economy based on manufacturing, agriculture and tourism makes Brooks County a stable environment in which to settle. One of the largest dairy counties in the state, Brooks County is well known for its rich farmland. Strawberries, blueberries, peaches and peanuts are among the favorites of locals and visitors; you can even visit and pick fruits and vegetables for yourself. Nature has been very good to Brooks County, and communities celebrate its farming successes with festivals during each growing season. Residents, visitors and tourists enjoy socializing together during gatherings highlighted with good food, handmade crafts and local entertainment. Fast becoming an antique mecca, Quitman’s restored historical downtown houses a diverse grouping, from quaint shops to designer showcases – fine dining to casual cafes.

Home to one of the state’s largest historical districts, Quitman features many interesting historical sites, such as the Presbyterian Church where John Pierpoint, composer of “Jingle Bells,” served as the organist in the early 1900’s.

Residents’ medical needs are met at the Brooks County Hospital in Quitman. The hospital received the “Outstanding Smith Hospital of the Year Award.” Additionally, within a 30-minute drive there are three large medical centers and another hospital, for a total of more than 800 beds and 450-plus physicians.

Ranked fourth in the state among continuing-care retirement communities, Presbyterian Home was founded in 1949 as a safe haven for widowed elderly ladies. The building was designed with porches allowing residents to spend time together, while sitting, talking and shelling peas! Today residents are provided with more stimulating activities such as monthly “lunch and learn” seminars on variety of topics offered to the entire community. Retirees also enjoy group trips to the symphony, art exhibitions and theatrical productions located in Valdosta. Residents can choose from living independently in the beautiful landscaped cottages or apartments by the pond, in an assisted living or nursing care facility.

Other communities in Brooks County offer cozy hometown atmospheres that appeal to those seeking out a location that’s “off the beaten path.” On early dewy mornings, it’s not unusual to wake up and spot a gentle doe or buck crossing your lawn. Avid sportsmen, seeking the wilderness of the area’s unspoiled natural wonders, come from near and far to hunt quail, dove, duck, deer and squirrel, all of which abound in acre upon acre of fields and forests throughout the county.

Settled in 1823, Morven is the oldest town in the county and best known for its hundreds of peach orchards. An active community of 630, Morven draws visitors from near and far to enjoy the annual Peach Festival each May. Dixie was established in 1981 when the railroad came through and was first called Number 17 or Groover’s Station. Incorporated in 1906 when the post office was transferred, it was renamed as Dixie. The railroad was built through Barney in 1897 and brought with it the development of a sawmill and then a cotton gin that sill exists today. Barwick and Pavo are agricultural communities.

Where the Past Meets the Future

Circa 1570, Spanish missionaries first settled Brooks County. As the railroad began a line from Thomasville to Savannah, Brooks County was created through a subdivision of Lowndes in 1858. By 1859 the county seat was formed with the center point of the town on the courthouse square. In less than half a year, Quitman was created, the War Between the States began and all work on the railroad stopped. Brooks County was the main producer of food for the Confederacy and became known throughout the U.S. as the “breadbasket of the South.” Work continued on the courthouse until its completion; renovated in 1882, the county offices still operate there today.

Three things were uppermost in the minds and hearts of Brooks County residents in the early days and have remained so ever since: religion, education and agriculture. The latter, in due time, brought commercial and industrial development; education brought culture; and religion created high ideals.

Preserving the Past

One of the largest national Historic Districts is located in Quitman. The Brooks County Museum and Cultural Center offers visitors a unique look at yesteryear and sponsors a variety of festivals and events. The Courthouse Square also boasts historical landmarks and structures significant to the community including the Brooks County Courthouse, Veterans memorial Monument, Confederate Soldiers Monument and the Sidewalk of Memories. The Quitman Walking and Driving Tour also features the community’s numerous historic homes and buildings including Mallory Manor, Henry Gray Turner House and a host of others that have been restored for public and private use.