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Revolutionary War History meets Hometown Charm
This summer, as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation's independence, there's no better way to honor those who fought for our freedom than by visiting Kettle Creek Battlefield, the site of one of the most pivotal Revolutionary War battles fought in Georgia. Nearby Washington GA, the first incorporated town named to honor our first President, welcomes you to experience its own patriotic spirit, community pride, and hometown charm…all worth fighting for.
- Re-live History at the Battle of Kettle Creek
- Stroll around the first incorporated town named for our first President
- Enjoy the last days of summer outdoor fun
Re-live History at the Battle of Kettle Creek
For history lovers and for all of us who are wondering what it must have been like for the patriots who left their homes and families and risked their properties and their lives to defend our rights as a new independent nation, a walk around the historic Kettle Creek Battlefield site makes it real.
As you make your way to the top of War Hill, it’s easy to imagine being there alongside of patriot leaders Andrew Pickens, Elijah Clark and John Dooly during this pivotable battle that turned the Loyalist army away and changed the course of the British Southern campaign. Kettle Creek Battlefield is designated as a National Historic Landmark in Georgia and is open to the public.
As you begin your venture to Kettle Creek, be sure to stop by the Washington-Wilkes Visitors Center for brochures and information about battlefield tours.
Then visit Washington Historical Museum for an overview of the battle, including a topographical map of War Hill and the surrounding battlefield. The museum itself is worth the visit and your chance to see inside this beautiful Georgia historic home. Originally built in 1835 and opened as a museum in 1950, the museum showcases authentic artifacts and collections from the area, including pieces once owned by George Washington. Be sure to pick up books and pamphlets about Kettle Creek and about Georgia in the Revolutionary War.
Also plan to visit the Mary Willis Library in Downtown Washington for more information about Washington’s Revolutionary War history as well as its role during the Civil War as the site of Jefferson Davis’s final Cabinet meeting that effectively dissolved the Confederate government.
Mary Willis Library was the first free public library in Georgia and still showcases its original Victorian structure and unique Tiffany Glass windows. This beautiful library is a valuable resource for researching Wilkes County Georgia genealogy and delving into Washington and Wilkes County history.
Stroll around the first incorporated town named for our first President.
Whether it’s your first visit or if you’re returning for more of its grace, charm and beauty, Washington welcomes you to enjoy its history, heritage and hospitality.
Washington GA was incorporated January 23, 1780, and became the first chartered town in the United States named in honor of George Washington.
Washington has been described as “one of the prettiest small towns in Georgia” by Southern Living Magazine, and with good reason. This small town in Wilkes County has more than 100 Antebellum and Victorian homes and buildings…more than any other town its size in Georgia.
Stroll along its tree-lined streets to admire these beauties, most of which are still owned and lovingly restored by current Washington citizens. For a glimpse inside one of these historic homes, plan a visit to the Robert Toombs State Historic Site, the home of Robert Toombs, U.S. Congressman and Senator, and contributor to the creation of the State of Georgia Constitution in 1877.
Or plan your stay around an 1820’s plantation home. Chantilly Plantation Bed & Breakfast Inn is a fully restored authentic antebellum manor home with six spacious bedrooms and over 100 acres of former plantation grounds. Perfect for a weekend stay or a special getaway.
Washington’s Historic Town Square reflects the small-town spirit that makes Washington special. Anchored on one side by the historic Fitzpatrick Hotel and at the end by its imposing courthouse and clock tower, the square is surrounded by specialty shops, antiques stores, an ice cream parlor, restaurants, a friendly sports bar and pub and even a wine bar!
Civic pride and spirit enhance the downtown area, honoring the town’s history and heritage…- 250th Anniversary Banners are displayed around the Square, honoring the Wilkes County Revolutionary War Heroes who helped secure America's independence. Stop by the Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce for a copy of the Revolutionary War Heroes of Wilkes County Companion Booklet for just $5.00.
- Markers and monuments on the town square honor Dabney Austin and other African American veterans of the Revolutionary War and Wilkes County Georgia Black History.
- Fort Washington Park, the site of the annual reenactment of the Battle of Kettle Creek, one of the best Revolutionary War reenactments in Georgia, is a being refurbished as part of a Community Revitalization Project. The goal is to create a welcoming destination for visitors, families and senior citizens…thanks to the highly focused efforts and direction of sponsors like Friends of the Square and The Water Cooler, a community news and events hub.
- Colorful murals on buildings around the downtown sector, including works by artists like John Christian and Emida Roller, depict the heritage and history of Washington and Wilkes County.
- Annual events like Mule Days at Callaway Plantation and The Spring Tour of Homes and Art Show highlight Washington’s cultural heritage.
Enjoy the last days of summer outdoor fun
There are a lot of opportunities around Wilkes County to explore the outdoors and maybe even walk in the footsteps of our patriot heroes.
Kettle Creek Battlefield has great walking and hiking trails, with markers and monuments that identify the areas where the historic battle was fought.
A short drive from Washington, on Clarks Hill Lake, Elijah Clark State Park pays tribute to the Revolutionary War frontiersman and hero that it is named for. A log cabin replica of the Clark home displays furniture, utensils and tools circa 1780 and visitors can also view the graves of Clark and his wife, Hannah. The park is great for swimming, fishing, camping, hiking and other outdoor activities.
America’s 250th Anniversary celebration doesn’t end on the 4th of July or after the excitement of fireworks and events are behind us. It continues as we remember the heroes and leaders that really did sacrifice their own lives and assets to ensure the freedom that we value. Take time to visit a hallowed battlefield and bask in the spirit of history and heritage that lives in Washington-Wilkes Georgia.
FAQs
Where can we stay in Washington?
You’ll find plenty of choices for places to stay in Washington, including historic charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals, as well as a brand hotel, all nearby to the historic downtown.
Are the historic homes in Washington open for tours?
The Robert Toombs State Historic Site and is open to the public. Twice a year, in December and April, a number of these historic Georgia homes are included on the Tour of Homes. And there is a driving tour map available at the Visitors Center and the Historical Museum.
Where is Washington GA located?
Washington is centrally located on Ga. Hwy. 78, just off Interstate 20, mid-way between Athens and Augusta, and not far from Clarks Hill Lake and the Savannah River.
Images
Elijah Clarke Cabin Museum: Georgia State Parks
https://gastateparks.org/ElijahClark
Artist Rendering of Battle: Dale Watson, Artist/Illustrator
Topographical Map Source: Washington Historical Museum
The Washington-Wilkes Historical Foundation – The Washington-Wilkes Historical Foundation
