Category Archives: –WHEELER COUNTY GA–

Spring Hill School, Wheeler County

I’m not sure of the date of construction of this school, but the first school here was the Clements Institute, which became the Methodist District High School in 1871.

Brennan Bass writes: Growing up in Springhill, I was told it was also the first place to hold classes for South Georgia College before locating to McRae. There used to be community businesses, (ie. Stores, a doctor’s office, etc., located on the grounds). There is an old map of the area from the late 1800s in a book about Springhill that shows this. This book was compiled by a former pastor and local families and historians.

Board-and-Batten Tenant House, Wheeler County

This has the appearance of a turpentine-related house, though that is only a guess.

Jordan, Georgia

This commissary served the historic Jordan community.

I believe the entire area was all part of one historic farm property.

Tenant Farmhouses, Jordan

These tenant house are amazing survivors of a large historic farm that’s still in operation.

These photos were made over several years; I’ve photographed this area many times.

Without tenants, large farms in the early 20th century wouldn’t have been possible; beginning in the years after World War II, mechanization did away with the need for this economic model.

The houses were originally spread out nearly a mile in two directions from the Jordan crossroads.

They are endangered resources but it’s nice that the owner has allowed them to stand this long, when removing them would have been more practical.

 

Folk Victorian Farmhouse, Jordan

I believe this beautifully restored house is now used by a local ministry.

Shiloh United Methodist Church, Circa 1886, Wheeler County

This congregation was organized in October 1885. To my knowledge, this is the original church building and was probably built soon after the congregation formed. I believe some of my Browning relatives attended this church as it’s located across the road from the old Browning’s Grocery. It’s one of the most beautiful country churches in the area and features one of the best-kept churchyards and cemeteries I’ve ever seen.

 

Browning Grocery, Wheeler County

This is located across the highway from Shiloh Methodist Church. There was also a school in this little community.

Saddlebag Farmhouse, Wheeler County

This is a typical example of a simple vernacular farmhouse that’s been refurbished and probably used as a rental or cabin. Many such structures can be found throughout South Georgia.