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Washington, Georgia is located in Wilkes County. That's west of Augusta, about 55 miles. You can get there by taking I-20 towards Atlanta, then take Highway 78 North.

Washington shares the name of our first president and there's quite an interesting history behind it. Settled in the heart of Wilkes County, Washington Georgia is home to about 5,000 people. Historian Robert "Skeet" Willingham Jr. tells WJBF News Channel 6, "Washington was the first town chartered in the name of General Washington before he became president. It was chartered in 1780 January 23."

During the Revolutionary War the Battle of Kettle Creek took place about seven miles from Washington. This was a significant battle in that it basically saved Georgia from being completely over run by the British in 1779. Wilkes County was later named for a British lawmaker.

"The county Wilkes was named for John Wilkes who was a British member of the parliament who was a supporter, believe it or not, of the American Revolution," explains Mr. Willingham.

The landscape of the town may have changed but some buildings still give us a glimpse of the 19th Century. The oldest building was built in 1815 and now it's a real estate office. Part of the town's courthouse was rebuilt after a fire. And we can't forget the famous Fitzpatrick Hotel restored in 1898.

The town's war history is a gold mine for historians. The sense of peace and relaxation is a cornerstone for many who call Washington home.

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