Lexington, Georgia, A Place Frozen In Time by Tori Bailey

The steady flow of traffic hums through the heart of this historic town that seems frozen in time.  The Romanesque Revival style courthouse is the focal point of the town’s square. I have traveled through Lexington more times than I would care to admit for my age.  Growing up in Washington, we often traveled to Athens for shopping, entertainment and to visit family.  It has been in my adult years that I have truly discovered this town that once was a mark along a journey.

Lexington is a great place to explore.  The row of shops that form a line along the highway are filled with antiques, collectibles, and artwork.  Two of my favorite shops are Local Color and The Civil Hen.

Local Color immediately invites you in to explore with the collection of sculptured yard art displayed along the sidewalk.  The wide store front windows display a glimpse of the many treasures waiting to be discovered on the inside.  Among the displays of antiques, home décor and collectibles, are original works of art by local artist.  A bookcase is host books written by Georgia Authors.  (View a small YouTube video at the bottom of this post on local book authors). 

The owner of Local Color is just as interesting to discover as the many treasures within her store.  Linda Parrish is interior designer and has found herself working of projects that have taken her all over the world.  “My first love is working in historic renovations.” 

The Civil Hen Antiques is located in the old bank on Main Street.  Davina Barnes was looking for a place that would give her space to paint and refurbish furniture when she discovered Lexington.  “I fell in love with the charm of this quaint town.”  Davina, a stage/decorator, found herself purchasing the vacant bank and starting The Civil Hen.  “I couldn’t have found a better location and love being able to find and create my own pieces.” 

Lexington was founded in 1800 and became the county seat of Oglethorpe the same year.  This small Southern town has been home to historical figures and places.  One place is the Columbia Theological Seminary.  The seminary was founded in 1830.  Several of the original buildings continue to stand today. 

Each October history comes to life with the Legends of Oglethorpe.  This event is a weekend filled with living history where today’s citizens can meet those of Lexington’s yesterday.  This year will mark the third annual event and a new cast of characters.  Those attending will be able to listen to each character tell their story and become transported to a time when Lexington was home to many notable people that were influential to the forming of our nation. (This year’s event will be hosted October 24 -25)

 

 

 

 

Mark your calendar, too, for the Oglethorpe Fresh Concert and Music Series that kicks off September 25th in Lexington.

 

 

 

A place that was once a view outside a passing car’s window has become a treasure to explore.  A trip home to Washington now factors a stop in Lexington to shop and explore the quaint town that seems frozen in time.

Author Tori Bailey's webpage.