Honoring Liberty County’s History During National Historic Preservation Month

Liberty County has grown and changed a lot over the past 248 years. From the early days of St. John’s Parish becoming our county seat to the establishment of Camp Stewart, now Fort Stewart, the largest military installation east of the Mississippi River, our history runs deep. May is observed as National Historic Preservation Month, and it’s the perfect time to shine a light on our local landmarks, stories and the efforts we make to keep them alive for future generations.

Discover Liberty County’s Historic Treasures

Throughout Liberty County, you’ll find historic markers that tell short stories about the people, places and events that have shaped our community. Each year, the Liberty County Convention & Visitors Bureau (LCCVB) visits these markers to give them a good scrub, so that we all can continue to enjoy them.

Here are just a few of the important historic sites you can explore:

The Bacon Fraser House

Built in 1839, this home has stood the test of time and seen many changes happen around it. This home has not only survived Sherman’s March to the Sea but was also the home to the Bacon Fraser family for six generations. Today, it houses the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce and LCCVB, serving as our community’s welcome center. Visit them at 208 East Court Street, Hinesville.

The Old Liberty County Jail

Constructed in the late 1800s, this was Liberty County’s first brick jail at and remained in use until 1970. Many longtime Hinesville residents can still tell stories of when it was open. Schedule a tour and visit at 302 South Main Street by calling the Hinesville Downtown Development Authority at 912.877.4332.

Fort Morris State Historic Site

Originally built to defend the former town of Sunbury during the Revolutionary War, Fort Morris still stands today as a symbol of our community’s commitment to freedom, offering beautiful views of the Medway River. Visit them at 2559 Fort Morris Road, Midway and walk the ground that deterred British forces.

The Midway Museum

The Midway Museum is a reproduction of an 18th-century plantation cottage constructed in 1959. The Museum is set up as an early 18th-century home would have been and contains original furnishings, artwork, documents, jewelry, clothing and much more! Since its founding, the Museum has acquired numerous 18th- and 19th-century family heirlooms, documents, books, genealogical records and furnishings. Visit them at 491 North Coastal Highway, Midway. Be sure to call ahead first to schedule and for pricing at 912.884.5837.

Dorchester Academy Boys’ Dormitory

Founded during the Reconstruction era, Dorchester Academy provided education for many local African Americans following the US Civil War. By the 1940s, it had become a key meeting spot for many Civil Rights leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. To learn more about Dorchester’s role in local and national history, visit them at 8787 East Oglethorpe Highway Midway and be sure to call first at 912.442.0018.

 

We are proud of Liberty County’s journey and are committed to honoring and preserving our community’s unique history. Historic preservation isn’t just about our past; it’s also about keeping our stories alive and sharing them with future generations. Visit our website today for more ways to #ExploreLiberty during Historic Preservation Month!