Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words, and this one fits the bill for me. This gentleman, who was dropping in to Jack Peek’s Sales [an outdoor and lawn equipment business and a Palmetto landmark itself], didn’t seem too keen on his photograph being made but gave me a friendly wave nonetheless when I told him about my project.

The photograph [made in 2017] sums up the vibe of Palmetto [pop. 5,075 (2021 estimate)], which is a small town at the southern end of Fulton County [pop. 1.065 million (2021 estimate)]. It was originally part of Campbell County, as I’ve already indicated in other posts, but was annexed into Fulton County in 1931. Here, just a hop and a skip away from the world’s busiest airport and some of the most maddening traffic in the country, are beautiful spacious lawns, historic homes that are well-maintained, and streets not crowded with pushy drivers. Oh, and friendly people.

Everyone I met was welcoming and glad I was documenting their hometown, and I even got a quick tour of the town from two Palmetto Police officers, one of whom was a photographer. We had a lively discussion and they were proud of the small town atmosphere they’ve been able to maintain here.

Growth is encroaching from all directions, but somehow Palmetto keeps it simple.