Wadley's local history includes the “The 20th Corps” marker, railroad history, and the folk art of Willie and Mae Tarver. It also includes a historic, intact downtown and numerous historic properties. The marker focuses on the destruction of the rail line on November 29, 1864. Shakerag was Wadley's former name; Wadley owes its current name to the president of the Central of Georgia Railway, and the renaming coincided with its designation as an official railroad stop.
Civil War History at a Crossroads
At the intersection of Calhoun Street and Main Street in Wadley stands the historic “The 20th Corps” marker. It was re-erected in 2010 and commemorates the destruction of the railroad line through Bethany (Wadley) to the Ogeechee River by Sherman's army on November 29, 1864. The dates mark two historical layers: 1864 represents the destruction of the railroad line, while 2010 marks the marker's re-erection. This shows how the marker connects a historical event with its later remembrance.
The marker also records that the railroad and wagon bridges east of Bethany were set on fire by Confederate defenders the following morning. The destruction of the rail line on November 29, 1864, and the burning of the bridges east of Bethany the following morning were separate events.
From Shakerag to Railroad Stop
Wadley's place name points to another layer of history. The town was originally known as “Shakerag”; it owes its current name to the president of the Central of Georgia Railway. The renaming coincided with Wadley's designation as an official railroad stop. The name's origin and the stop designation tell two sides of the town's development: its naming and its position in the railroad system at the time.
Downtown, Properties, and Folk Art
Wadley has a historic, intact downtown and a large number of historic properties. The downtown shapes the historic character of the town center, while the properties represent individual historic buildings.
Willie and Mae Tarver's studio and gallery are located in Wadley. Both are nationally recognized folk artists. This adds a specific cultural theme to the town's railroad history and local history. If you plan to visit the studio or gallery, it's recommended that you check in advance about visiting arrangements.
The City Park and Its Documented Facilities
A 2004 plan lists a ball field, two basketball courts, two tennis courts, a swimming pool, and various playground equipment for Wadley's city park. It also listed restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and a picnic pavilion. Since these details describe the park in 2004, check its current condition before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Gray.
For the broader travel overview: Jefferson County.
