Friday afternoon, I enjoyed sharing a unique experience with a dear friend visiting from out of town — an enlightening tour of the historic courthouse in downtown Valdosta. 

This imposing structure, representative of our community’s rich history, has always intrigued me. 

I was excited to explore it again, especially with someone eager to learn about its significance. 

As we approached the courthouse, the curator, Jessica Ganas, warmly welcomed us. Her reputation in the community as a dedicated servant was immediately apparent as she greeted us with a friendly smile. 

Jessica’s passion for the courthouse and its history quickly set the tone for an engaging and educational experience. 

This was my second tour guided by her, and I was eager to hear her insights anew. 

When we entered, Mrs. Ganas demonstrated her deep knowledge of the Lowndes County Historic Courthouse. 

The architecture — a captivating blend of neoclassical and Romanesque styles—was just the beginning. 

With each room we entered, Jessica unveiled stories of the courthouse’s past, sharing captivating anecdotes about landmark cases that were heard within its walls, its original construction in 1905, and its role in the development of our community. 

Her enthusiasm was infectious, and it was clear that she intended to make history come alive for us.

What truly stood out to me was Jessica’s embodiment of servant leadership. Her focus remained entirely on us for over an hour — answering questions, clarifying details, and painting a vivid picture of the courthouse’s history without any hint of self-importance. 

Her absence of ego allowed us to connect with the narratives and engage in meaningful dialogue about the courthouse’s historical impact on Valdosta and beyond. 

It felt less like a scripted tour and more like a conversation with a knowledgeable friend who genuinely wanted to share their love for history and community.

The historic courthouse tours are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, both in the morning and afternoon, allowing ample opportunities for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the area’s heritage. 

If you ever find yourself with a guest in town and a spare hour and a half, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring this gem of Valdosta. You will gain insight into local history and experience the warmth and dedication that community members like Jessica Ganas bring to their work.

As our tour concluded, my friend and I reminisced about our favorite moments — the magnificent courtroom, the stories of the county fathers, and the courthouse’s hidden corners that we had yet to discover. 

It was a delightful experience that deepened our appreciation for Valdosta’s history and culture. 

Through the expert guidance of Jessica Ganas, we left the courthouse enriched by the knowledge that had been so generously shared. 

In sum, visiting the historic courthouse is not just a tour; it’s an invitation to understand the foundations of our community and honor those who have shaped its legacy.

 

Burton Fletcher, JD, MBA, is a retired full professor of business administration, managing attorney of Burton Fletcher Injury Law Group, and founder, president, and executive director of the Burton Fletcher Foundation for Animals. Contact him at Burton@CallOurLawyers.com or Burton@BurtonFletcherFoundation.org or text to (229) 560-8180.