The city of Valdosta is turning 150 years old this year, with events and activities planned throughout the year to commemorate the city’s founding.
Valdosta and its leadership have changed dramatically over those years, as the city has grown, doubled and tripled in size. The once sleepy railroad town best known for its cotton and turpentine is now a full-fledged Southern city, a jewel of Georgia, and a destination unto itself.
The location of the interstate through the city in the 1960s certainly helped make the community what it is today, but there are so many other factors that have helped put Valdosta on the map.
Moody Air Force Base has brought military personnel in and out for more than 50 years, many of whom have chosen to stay and make the city their home.
Valdosta State University has added culture through the arts, the symphony and the theatre, and by attracting thousands of students from across the region who will forever carry a piece of Valdosta with them wherever they go.
Having a state-of-the-art hospital, excellent restaurants and shopping, the city has been able to continuously attract visitors and new residents from a wide expanse of Florida and Georgia.
With the addition of Wild Adventures and its continued success, the city of Valdosta’s businesses have benefited tremendously, as has the tourism industry in the area.
But at the heart of Valdosta, a thriving downtown and incredible people have taken this sleepy town to great heights, and there is more to come.
Join Mayor John Fretti on the steps of the Courthouse on Friday at 6 p.m., enjoy an evening of historic activities in Downtown Valdosta afterwards, and celebrate this beautiful and mature city of the South.
