Georgia
State Pride|History

The Longest Covered Bridge In Georgia, Watson Mill Bridge, Is 229 Feet Long

Watson Mill Bridge in Georgia, the longest covered bridge in the state, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Published Jan 16, 2021

Written by 

Angie Slayton

Outside of Athens, Georgia is a state park that is bursting with natural beauty and history. Nestled within the spectacular Watson Mill State Park is the Watson Mill Bridge, a 9-foot clearance, 229 foot covered bridge, the longest in the state. Learn all about the history and beauty of this spectacular attraction. But we recommend visiting in person if you haven't yet because this gem needs some in-person appreciation.

Watson Mill Bridge in Georgia needs to be seen in person in order to truly be appreciated.

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Located within Watson Mill Bridge State Park, one of the most beautiful parks in Georgia, this covered bridge is the longest in the state, clocking in at 229 feet.

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Built back in 1885, Watson Mill Bridge was crafted by Washington King, the son of Horace King, a freed slave, and a legendary covered bridge builder.

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The bridge is truly special, as one of the last remaining 20 covered bridges within the state.

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Walk through the bridge and appreciate the town lattice truss system, which is held together with treenails.

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For a $5 parking fee, you can spend the day in this stunning park, with a packed picnic and enjoying the view.

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Visit Watson Mill Bridge in Georgia, the largest covered bridge in the state, for the perfect combination of beauty and history.

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To find where Watson Mill Bridge is in Georgia click here to open the map.

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Have you ever been to Watson Mill Bridge in Georgia before? We'd love to hear about it! Share your experience in the comments section! Or, if you want more information about this bridge, including the park's current hours of operation, check out the Georgia State Park website.

If you love this covered bridge in Georgia, then you'll likely want to keep exploring! Take the Ultimate Covered Bridge Road Trip in Georgia for a weekend filled with adventure and history.

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State Pride|History

We Bet You Didn’t Know That Georgia Was Home To One Of The Oldest State Parks In America

Indian Springs State Park in Georgia is considered the oldest state park in the nation and features a historic natural spring with reputed healing properties.

Updated Aug 11, 2024

Written by 

Angie Slayton

Georgia might not have a lot of unique claims to fame, but when it comes to history, this state has a lot of pull. For instance, you might not have known this, but Georgia is said to have the oldest state park in the nation. Indian Springs State Park, one of the oldest state parks in the US, is located in Flovilla is a tiny state park that you might not have known to exist. But this small gem boasts some significant history, including a natural spring that is said to have healing properties.

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What you might not know about Indian Springs State Park in Georgia is that besides being a spectacular place to visit with friends and family, this state park is also thought to be the oldest state park in the nation.

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While some historians or other state residents might disagree, it's at least one of the nation's oldest state parks. Let’s discuss some of the facts.

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Indian Springs State Park was acquired by the state in 1825 and officially became a “State Forest Park” in 1927.

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However, the history of this state park in Georgia dates back centuries - as Creek Indians used the springs within the park to heal the sick within their tribe.

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As expected from the natural spring, this area was also a bustling resort town through the 1800s, drawing in visitors for the beautiful bouts of nature and the freshwater spring.

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Today, visitors are still able to sample the artesian spring water flowing from the Spring House in case they’re looking for their own healing qualities and homeopathic care.

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Besides the historic natural spring, Indian Springs State Park also has a bevy of outdoor activities to enjoy from camping and hiking to special internal events, and beyond.

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Even just wading in Sandy Creek on a warm day or walking the nature trails throughout is sure to give you some peace of mind.

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So the next time you’re looking for a dose of history smack dab in the middle of nature head on over to one of the oldest state parks in the nation - Indian Springs.

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Head to Google Maps to find out where Indian Springs State Park is in Georgia.

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Have you ever been to Indian Springs State Park, one of the most historic Georgia State Parks? Did you know it's one of the oldest state parks in the US? Let us know! Or if you're looking for more information about this state park, including current hours of operation and fees for entry, visit the Indian Springs State Park website or Facebook page.

Are you planning on hiking through any of our state parks this year? Make sure you check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List and download the AllTrails+ app before you hit the trails!

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State Pride|History

Few People Know The Real Reason The Olde Pink House In Georgia Is Painted Pink

The Olde Pink House in Savannah, Georgia, is famous for its unique pink color caused by red brick bleeding through white plaster.

Updated Aug 11, 2024

Written by 

Angie Slayton

Situated on 23 Abercorn Street in Savannah, Georgia sits one of the most coveted restaurants in the state - The Olde Pink House. People will travel from all over to dine at this beloved Savannah staple, many walking away saying it was the best meal of their lives. And while many Georgians know the name of the house, many might not know the reason behind the famed color. Believe it or not, there is a reason behind why The Olde Pink House is pink in color and it’s not just because of a choice in paint.

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Have you ever wondered why is the Olde Pink House pink? The story begins back in the 1700s when a man named James Habersham Jr. began constructing the most elaborate mansion in Savannah, Georgia.

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James experienced a few minor mishaps during the construction of this building, as well as an unusual setback.

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The mansion’s primary structure was made of red brick, which then was covered in entirety by white plaster.

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Whether it was either the brick quality that was lacking or the plaster job that was done haphazardly, nobody knows.

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However, the red brick began bleeding through the white plaster, turning the mansion an unusual shade of pink!

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Habersham became self-conscious about the color and thought he would be the laughing stock of the neighborhood, so he decided to cover the building with white paint whenever the pink color came through.

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Yet, over the years the decedents of Habersham became annoyed with having to paint the house so often.

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Eventually in the 1920s, a woman who wanted to open a tea room purchased the mansion and decided to accept the color for what it was, and even went so far as to paint the whole building pink.

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As it stands today, the pink color of The Olde Pink House is one of the most notable characteristics of one of the most historic houses in Georgia. We can’t imagine it any other way.

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Did you know the reason why The Olde Pink House is pink in color? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or if you have any more tidbits of information regarding this beloved restaurant in Savannah, then make sure to let us know. To find out more about The Olde Pink House, visit the official website.

Would you like to explore the historic side of Savannah, Georgia? Embark on the Narrated Historic Savannah Sightseeing Trolley Tour by booking your spot on Viator.

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