Thanks to the efforts of Chip Jones and everyone at Main Street Richland, this small community exhibits a sense of pride and history that should be an example to all. Cosmetic improvements, as well as an active search for small businesses, have helped Richland make a name for itself at a time when many towns of similar size are deteriorating and being forgotten. And Richland Rum, a small craft distillery, has really put the town on the map. When they were in the planning phases, Chip Jones wrote: Richland Distilleries, a small-batch rum distiller, will open shop this fall downtown. We are hoping that will lead to more businesses and some heritage tourism growth. We are working hard to make sure our community can provide services and goods to all our citizens, especially our seniors and those living below poverty line who can no longer afford gas to shop in Columbus and Albany as their needs require.
Richland Historic District, National Register of Historic Places
Vanishing Georgia: Photographs by Brian Brown 
Spoke too soon! here Richland is!!! 🙂 Although pics are limited, we are still on the map! 🙂
Glad you found them, LaRhonda. Perhaps you know some more good places in Stewart County you can point me, too.
I grew up in Richland and am so excited to see what is happening there. If you haven’t been to Pigfest, it’s a real treat…second weekend in November. There is a mighty band of civic leaders who are making a real difference and my brother, Chip, is leading the pack. He is a creaitve force to be reckoned with! Go Richlandites!! Thanks for the great pictures, Brian. Keep up the excellent work of capturing this special part of the U.S.
Thanks, Julie! Chip is a really nice guy…I always appreciate his comments, and the work he does for Richland.
They are doing a great job !
Thank you Brian. Richland Distilleries, a small-batch rum distiller, will open shop this fall downtown. We are hoping that will lead to more businesses and some heritage tourism growth. We are working hard to make sure our community can provide services and goods to all our citizens, especially our seniors and those living below poverty line who can no longer afford gas to shop in Columbus and Albany as their needs require.
The Distillery sounds amazing. I know Charleston is making Vodka and that’s been a small success. If they keep it small-batch, they should certainly be able to make a go of it.