Menu

Publications

newmarker_reduced

Thomasville Times-Enterprise: Georgia Historical Marker for Finney General Hospital reinstalled in Thomasville

Thomasville Times-Enterprise, June 8, 2026

The Thomasville History Center, in collaboration with the Georgia Historical Society, is pleased to announce the reinstallation of the Georgia Historical Marker for Finney General Hospital, preserving an important public-history landmark connected to Thomasville’s World War II history.

Originally erected in 2006 by the Georgia Historical Society and the Thomas County Historical Society, Inc., now the Thomasville History Center, the marker commemorates Finney General Hospital, a World War II Army hospital once located in Thomasville. The hospital, named in honor of Brigadier General John M.T. Finney, was authorized on September 30, 1942, and dedicated on June 16, 1943. It was one of sixty Army hospitals built across the country to care for sick and wounded World War II soldiers. Before closing on December 15, 1945, Finney General Hospital treated 23,055 World War II veterans.

The marker, which had sustained damage, was recast and reinstalled through a partnership between the Georgia Historical Society and the Thomasville History Center, the marker’s local sponsor. Installation was completed by Pride & Sons Services, LLC, a family-owned Thomasville business whose roots in the community go back generations. The project reflects the shared commitment of all involved to preserving Georgia’s historical markers and ensuring that significant local stories remain accessible to residents and visitors.

“Historical markers are one of the most visible ways communities encounter their past,” said Austin Bell, Executive Director of the Thomasville History Center. “We are grateful to the Georgia Historical Society for its leadership in preserving this marker and proud to continue our role as sponsor. Finney General Hospital is an important part of Thomasville’s story, and this project helps ensure that history remains present in the landscape.”

During its operation, Finney General Hospital grew to include approximately 200 buildings, including hospital wards, a theater, gymnasium, chapel, bowling alley, and barracks for German prisoners of war. Citizens of Thomas County also supported the hospital and its patients through the Grey Ladies Corps, plantation picnics, use of the YMCA, and lodging for soldiers’ families in private homes.

Finney General Hospital was part of Thomasville’s 20th-century history and represents the community’s connection to broader national events. By restoring the marker, the project helps preserve public access to that history and supports continued awareness of Thomasville and Thomas County’s role in Georgia’s past.

“Georgia’s historical markers help tell the stories of communities across the state,” said Breana James, Program Manager, Georgia Historical Society. “We appreciate the Thomasville History Center’s continued stewardship of the Finney General Hospital marker and its partnership in helping preserve this piece of Georgia history.”

The marker is located near the intersection of South Pinetree Boulevard and South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, on the south side of South Pinetree Boulevard along the sidewalk. Public parking is available at nearby Balfour Park.

WCTV: Something Good: Historical marker reinstalled for World War II hospital in Thomasville

WCTV, June 4, 2026

The Thomasville History Center, in collaboration with the Georgia Historical Society, is pleased to announce the reinstallation of the Georgia Historical Marker for Finney General Hospital, preserving an important public-history landmark connected to Thomasville’s World War II history.

Originally erected in 2006 by the Georgia Historical Society and the Thomas County Historical Society, Inc., now the Thomasville History Center, the marker commemorates Finney General Hospital, a World War II Army hospital once located in Thomasville. The hospital, named in honor of Brigadier General John M.T. Finney, was authorized on September 30, 1942, and dedicated on June 16, 1943. It was one of sixty Army hospitals built across the country to care for sick and wounded World War II soldiers. Before closing on December 15, 1945, Finney General Hospital treated 23,055 World War II veterans.

The marker, which had sustained damage, was recast and reinstalled through a partnership between the Georgia Historical Society and the Thomasville History Center, the marker’s local sponsor. Installation was completed by Pride & Sons Services, LLC, a family-owned Thomasville business whose roots in the community go back generations. The project reflects the shared commitment of all involved to preserving Georgia’s historical markers and ensuring that significant local stories remain accessible to residents and visitors.

“Historical markers are one of the most visible ways communities encounter their past,” said Austin Bell, Executive Director of the Thomasville History Center. “We are grateful to the Georgia Historical Society for its leadership in preserving this marker and proud to continue our role as sponsor. Finney General Hospital is an important part of Thomasville’s story, and this project helps ensure that history remains present in the landscape.”

During its operation, Finney General Hospital grew to include approximately 200 buildings, including hospital wards, a theater, gymnasium, chapel, bowling alley, and barracks for German prisoners of war. Citizens of Thomas County also supported the hospital and its patients through the Grey Ladies Corps, plantation picnics, use of the YMCA, and lodging for soldiers’ families in private homes.

Finney General Hospital was part of Thomasville’s 20th-century history and represents the community’s connection to broader national events. By restoring the marker, the project helps preserve public access to that history and supports continued awareness of Thomasville and Thomas County’s role in Georgia’s past.

“Georgia’s historical markers help tell the stories of communities across the state,” said Breana James, Program Manager, Georgia Historical Society. “We appreciate the Thomasville History Center’s continued stewardship of the Finney General Hospital marker and its partnership in helping preserve this piece of Georgia history.”

The marker is located near the intersection of South Pinetree Boulevard and South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, on the south side of South Pinetree Boulevard along the sidewalk. Public parking is available at nearby Balfour Park.

4b. Photo of Exterior

Thomasville Times-Enterprise: Thomasville History Center awarded 1772 Foundation Grant for Metcalfe Courthouse preservation

Thomasville Times-Enterprise, May 28, 2026

The Thomasville History Center has been awarded a $10,000 matching grant through the 1772 Foundation in partnership with the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation to support exterior rehabilitation of the historic Metcalfe Courthouse.

The award is part of $125,000 in preservation funding distributed this year to fourteen nonprofit organizations across Georgia maintaining historic sites and community landmarks.

Located on the History Center’s campus at 725 N. Dawson Street, the Metcalfe Courthouse represents the civic history of one of Thomas County’s early railroad communities. Metcalfe, located eight miles southeast of Thomasville, was founded in 1889 as a lumber- and agriculture-based boomtown that developed around its rail depot. By 1892, residents petitioned Thomas County to construct a courthouse for magisterial purposes. Although the building was never used for formal court proceedings, it became the civic heart of the community and served for generations as a public gathering place and voting precinct until 2002.

In 2003, after years of deterioration, the structure was placed up for auction by Thomas County. The Thomas County Historical Society (now the Thomasville History Center) successfully acquired the building and relocated it to the History Center campus in 2004, along with original contents including benches, ballot boxes, and voting materials, to ensure its long-term preservation.

Grant funding will support exterior stabilization and restoration work, including repair and replacement of deteriorated wood elements, surface preparation and repainting, reglazing of historic windows, and other measures intended to protect the building from moisture intrusion and long-term deterioration.

“This grant represents an important investment in one of the most unique and meaningful structures on our campus,” said Austin Bell, Executive Director of the Thomasville History Center. “The Metcalfe Courthouse tells the story of rural civic life in Thomas County, and we are deeply grateful to the Georgia Trust and the 1772 Foundation for helping us preserve it for future generations. Special thanks as well to the Metcalfe Heritage Society, the Thomas County Board of Commissioners, and the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce for their support during the grant process.”

The exterior work will also allow the History Center to begin planning concurrently with the Metcalfe Heritage Society and other stakeholders for future interpretation, programming, and visitor experience improvements, with the goal of advancing that next phase in 2027. The grant-funded exterior project is expected to be completed by May 2027.

For more information, including tour tickets and event details, visit www.ThomasvilleHistory.org.

freedom250lockups-final_bsm2_horizontal_

Thomasville Times-Enterprise: Thomasville organizations join National Blue Star Museums program for summer 2026

Thomasville Times-Enterprise, May 18, 2026

Three Thomasville cultural organizations —Pebble Hill Plantation, Thomasville Center for the Arts, and the Thomasville History Center — are proud to announce their participation in the 2026 Blue Star Museums program, a national initiative offering free summer admission to currently serving military personnel and their families.

The participation of multiple Thomasville organizations in Blue Star Museums reflects the strength of the arts, history, and cultural life in the community. Together, these organizations offer military families the opportunity to explore a connected story of Thomasville and the Red Hills region through art, architecture, local history, creativity, landscape, and community memory.

Blue Star Museums is a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, in collaboration with the Department of Defense and participating museums across the country. The 2026 program begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 16, and continues through Labor Day, Monday, September 7.

“Blue Star Museums has opened doors for military families to explore, connect, and feel at home,” said Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO of Blue Star Families. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we’re proud to continue this partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and museums nationwide—welcoming military families into the heart of our nation’s story and celebrating them every step of the way.”

Through the program, currently serving members of the United States military — including the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, Space Force, Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, and NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps — may receive free admission for themselves and up to five family members by presenting a valid military ID.

“Having multiple Thomasville cultural institutions take part in Blue Star Museums is a testament to the strength of the arts in our community,” said the directors of Pebble Hill Plantation, Thomasville Center for the Arts, and the Thomasville History Center in a joint statement. “Together, our organizations have the opportunity to thank military families for their service and welcome them into the cultural treasures, local stories, and creative experiences that make Thomasville so special.”

Each participating organization offers a distinct experience while contributing to a broader understanding of Thomasville and the Red Hills region. Pebble Hill Plantation invites visitors to experience the history, architecture, collections, gardens, and 3,000-acre grounds of a 20th-century Southern sporting estate. Thomasville Center for the Arts connects the community through inspiring exhibitions, year-round arts education, annual festivals and hands-on art experiences for all ages. The Thomasville History Center invites guests to explore the people, places, buildings, and stories that have shaped Thomasville and the Red Hills region over time. 

Together, these organizations provide military families with a meaningful way to experience Thomasville’s story from multiple perspectives through art, history, and community. Admission procedures, hours, and available experiences may vary by location. Visitors are encouraged to check with each participating organization before planning their visit.

To learn more about Blue Star Museums or to find participating museums across the country, visit arts.gov/BlueStarMuseums.

 

y29u023v0bnvc64qdhltavcwplbs

Thomasville Insights: Season 5 Episode 17- Thomasville History We Need to Know

Thomasville Insights podcast, City of Thomasville, April 17, 2026

Welcome to Thomasville Insights with the City of Thomasville! Located in Thomasville, Georgia, the podcast will cover everything from Thomasville history and events to daily operations and City business, all while having some fun in the process. 

On this episode, we interview History Center Curator Ephraim Rotter, who fills us in on some important local history and more.

Some of the topics include:

• History Center Lunch and Learn updates plus what’s next 
• How Thomas County and Thomasville get their names 
• Why Lot 39 matters to the city’s beginning 
• Henry O. Flipper’s legacy through the wider Flipper family’s achievements 
• Why politicians and public figures choose to visit Thomasville 
• John F. Archbold’s local influence beyond building a hospital 
• Why does Thomasville have an odd street layout? 

To learn more about the city of Thomasville, visit Thomasville.org.

lp-house-e1776429941257 (1)

Thomasville Times-Enterprise: Thomasville welcomes Georgia Red Carpet Tour

Thomasville Times-Enterprise, April 17, 2026

The Payroll Development Authority welcomed the Georgia Red Carpet Tour to Thomasville over the weekend.

Hosted annually during the Masters Tournament, this prestigious, invitation-only event brings global business leaders to Georgia to experience firsthand what makes the Peach State a strong place to live, work, and invest. With stops in both Thomasville and August, the City of Roses had a unique opportunity to shine on a statewide stage.

The Georgia Red Carpet Tour, led by partners including the Georgia Allies, Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Department of Economic Development, and the local Payroll Development Authority, is designed to “soft sell” Georgia by connecting decision makers with communities and showcasing real opportunities for growth and opportunities.

Attendees begin with a dinner at the Governor’s Mansion on Wednesday night, before attending the Master’s Tournament on Thursday morning. Thursday afternoon, they then boarded a flight, arriving in Thomasville late that evening, where they checked into the Marriott for the duration of their stay.

While in Thomasville, guests got a true taste of the community and all it has to offer.

Attendees had the chance to enjoy a round of golf at the prestigious Glen Arven Country Club, explore the city’s rich history on a guided trolley tour, or experience sporting clays at The Ranges at Oakfield. Visitors spent the afternoon at Box Hall Plantation and Pebble Hill Plantation for beautiful scenic views, a dog trial presentation, and discussions on historic preservation. Each experience highlighted the quality of life and unique assets that make Thomasville such a special place.

“The feedback we got was great,” said Shelley Zorn, President and CEO of the Payroll Development Authority. “They were so impressed with the downtown and very complimentary during the history tour.”

Friday evening, guests returned to Pebble Hill Plantation for a catered dinner, featuring all of Thomasville’s local fare.

The spread featured an array of cheeses from Sweet Grass Dairy, a whole hog from Liam’s, barbecue from Climmie’s, and hors d’oeuvres from JB Crumbs.

“We gave them a taste of Thomasville,” she said. “Our hospitality people worked really hard.”

Zorn praised everyone the attendees came across, and noted that it had a direct impact, as every person stated they plan to return.

“It had a great economic impact, beyond just showing off our community,” she said.

Since the tour, Zorn has already been contacted by a business owner whose friend attended the Georgia Red Carpet Tour with inquiries about home prices and industrial building prices.

“He thought it was so great looking that he wanted to refer a friend,” she explained.

Zorn said the hosts are likely to refer more projects to Thomasville down the road, though.

“We deal with them all the time, so it’s great to let them see the community so they can bring someone else back,” she said.

Now that Thomasville has become a stop on the Red Carpet Tour — the first non-metro stop, Zorn said the city will likely be added to a 10-year rotation and have the opportunity to show off again in the future.

For now, though, she is proud to have played a role in such an impactful event and looks forward to the opportunities it will bring to the region.

 

Rose Show Exhibit 2022

Thomasville Times-Enterprise: Thomasville History Center joins Rose Show festivities

Thomasville Times-Enterprise, April 16, 2026

The Thomasville History Center will join in this year’s Rose Show & Festival with a series of special offerings that highlight the community’s traditions during Thomasville’s historic bicentennial year.

At the Lapham-Patterson House, the History Center will present Thomasville & Tiaras, a pop-up exhibit featuring a curated display of past Thomasville Rose Queen gowns and crowns. The exhibit offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore the pageantry and legacy of one of Thomasville’s most cherished annual traditions within an iconic historic home.

The exhibit will be on view from April 23 through May 16, 2026, and is included with regular guided tour admission at the Lapham-Patterson House, offered Thursday through Saturday. Tickets are available online or at the Thomasville History Center front desk.

As part of Rose Show weekend, the Lapham-Patterson House will also host a free open house on Saturday, April 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Visitors are invited to explore the exhibit at their own pace and experience the elegance and craftsmanship of Rose Show traditions in Thomasville’s only National Historic Landmark.

Guests can also attend a meet-and-greet from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with Miss Thomasville Ana Chambers, Miss Thomasville’s Teen Kinley Harrison, Court Member Madeline Patz, and Court Member Savannah Harpe.

In addition to activities at the Lapham-Patterson House, the History Center campus will feature demonstrations by the Thomasville Amateur Radio Club, which will be set up outside the front of the museum from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The History Center and its gift shop will also be open to visitors during those hours.

The History Center will also participate in the Rose Parade on Friday, April 24, when Curator of Collections Ephraim Rotter will drive Bill Cox’s 1923 Ford Model T down Broad Street with special dignitaries in tow. The Model T is one of four historic vehicles in the History Center’s collection, all on permanent exhibit in the Roberts Garage.

“These offerings reflect our commitment to being an active participant in the life of the community,” said Executive Director Austin Bell. “During this bicentennial year, we are especially excited to contribute to the Rose Show by sharing the stories, traditions, and experiences that make Thomasville so special.”

PerfectAlignmentSmall

Thomasville Times-Enterprise: Perfect Alignment: An Equinox Evening with Lapham to debut March 20

,

Thomasville Times-Enterprise, March 9, 2026

On March 20, the Thomasville History Center will debut Perfect Alignment: An Equinox Evening with Lapham, a new immersive fundraising dinner at the historic Lapham-Patterson House.

Timed with the spring equinox, the evening centers on a rare architectural phenomenon: on just two days each year, sunlight aligns with key features of the house, revealing effects that reflect the intentional design of its original owner, Charles Lapham. A dabbling Spiritualist, Lapham incorporated symbolism, orientation, and belief into the layout of the home — themes that will guide the evening’s program.

“This house was designed with intention — not just structurally, but symbolically,” said Austin Bell, Executive Director of the Thomasville History Center. “The equinox gives us a rare opportunity to see the Lapham-Patterson House exactly as Charles Lapham meant it to be experienced. Perfect Alignment allows us to connect architecture, belief, and the natural world in a way that feels both historic and immediate, while directly supporting the preservation of this extraordinary home.”

The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour featuring live piano music performed from period sheet music preserved in the History Center’s collection. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, a signature equinox-inspired sangria, and a selection of regional wines while exploring the house. Tarot card readings and docent-guided equinox light viewings will add to the immersive experience.

Dinner will be served in the courtyard, weather permitting, allowing guests to enjoy the evening and a presentation on Lapham’s Spiritualist beliefs and their influence on the home’s architecture. The evening concludes with period phonograph recordings playing as guests take a final stroll through the house.

Seating is intentionally limited to preserve the intimate nature of the experience, and table sponsorship opportunities are available.

Perfect Alignment is the first annual fundraiser created exclusively to support the preservation and programming of the Lapham-Patterson House, which operates with its own dedicated budget under the stewardship of the Thomasville History Center in partnership with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Historic Preservation Division.

Advance tickets are required and must be purchased by Friday, March 13.
For tickets and information, visit www.thomasvillehistory.org.

Screenshot 2025-12-29 142359

WCTV: Thomas County reflects on 200 years of history during Bicentennial Commemoration board meeting

WCTV, December 23, 2025

To mark 200 years of history, stewardship and service, the Thomas County Board of Commissioners held a Bicentennial Commemoration board meeting Tuesday. The special meeting included a reenactment of the proclamation reading in which Thomas County was formed on Dec. 23, 1825. The Thomasville History Center also presented a 30-minute historical video, giving the community a look at the county’s changes throughout the years. Read more here.

Darlene-group-e1766541178192

Thomasville Times-Enterprise: Thomas County celebrates Bicentennial with Commemorative Board meeting

Thomasville Times-Enterprise, December 23, 2025

The Thomas County Board of Commissioners gathered on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, to mark 200 years of service, stewardship, and shared history.  Donned in matching period attire, the Commissioners held a Commemorative Board meeting, where those in attendance heard a presentation of the Act of the General Assembly of December 23, 1825, to form two new counties from the preexisting counties of Irwin and Decatur. The Act established that the seventeenth and eighteenth districts in Decatur, along with portions of the twenty-third and nineteenth districts that lie on the east side of the Ohlockonee River, together with the thirteenth and fourteenth districts of Irwin County, would form a new county known as Thomas. Read more here.

Load More