Georgia’s Old Capitol Building – Milledgeville’s Local Notable

Milledgeville is the Antebellum Capital, the last Frontier Capital, the Civil War Capital and at one time the State Capital.  The building still stands today as a museum full of state history. We kick off “Middle Georgia Pride Milledgeville” with the cities local notable.

Georgia’s old capitol building, now nestled on the quad of Georgia Military College, was one of the first public buildings built in the gothic style, appearing fortress like.

“And this is probably the message that these early fathers wanted to give, of a capital that was here to stay that represented security and stability for the people,” said Amy Wright, Executive Director of Georgia’s Old Capitol Museum.

Milledgeville was named the capital of Georgia from 1807-1868. More than 140 years later, a place that once made history now stands full of history waiting for you to come in and explore.

“Because if they come in here, chances are they’re probably going to see something about somebody from their family,” said Sally Holmes, employee of Georgia’s Old Capitol Museum.

The walls are filled with artifacts from 30,000 B.C. to the 1920’s.

“They find their history spread before them and I want to invite them to come and learn more about the history that’s theirs,” said Wright.

“They can go upstairs and see the restored legislative chamber so they’re going to learn a lot when they come here,” said Holmes.

The historic building is where the decision was made that Georgia would be the fifth state to secede from the union.

After you check out the old capitol building, you can go to the Brown-Stetson-Sandford House. Initially it was a tavern and hotel for members of the Wigg Party, then it became their headquarters eventually turninginto a private residence.  Today the home is considered an 1825 architectural gem.

“The legislators that came to Milledgeville had to come by horseback, by boat, by stage coach. It would have been a very arduous trip,” said Wright.

Milledgeville’s rein as the capital came to a close in 1868. The lack of railways in the area was a big factor for the capitals move.

“Our history is right here and we need to get very familiar with it so that we appreciate it and know not only where we’re going but from where we have come,” said Wright.

The Museum has a rotating gallery. The next exhibit, “Tenting Tonight on the Old Campground,” opens September 1.

For more information, visit  www.oldcapitalmuseum.org