Although gold was not discovered with the Civil War artifacts recently uncovered at Camp Lawton, the artifacts themselves could be as “good as gold” to Millen and Jenkins County, say local leaders. The archaeological dig at Camp Lawton, sponsored by Georgia Southern University (GSU), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Georgia Department of Natural Resources, has been labeled a “major” discovery.

“The find is going to be a great opportunity as far as economic development,” said Paula Herrington, Millen/Jenkins County Chamber of Commerce executive director. “I have already had calls from business owners who are interested in locating a business here in Millen. They like the appearance of Cotton Avenue and are all for locating here. This is going to be the biggest thing that has happened to our community, and we need to capitalize on the discovery any way we can.”

“I am quite excited about the finds and the fact that this is such a pristine site, and the federal government as well as the state will be working with a great department of an outstanding university to make this happen to the very fullest of all events,” said Mabel Jenkins, chairman, Jenkins County Development Authority.

All involved in the project have indicated that “capitalizing” on the discovery will mean the construction of a museum in Jenkins County, preferably at Magnolia Springs State Park, to house the artifacts. The items are being temporarily housed at the GSU museum due to the need for a climate controlled environment in order to preserve them. They will be available for public viewing at GSU beginning in October. There are also plans to bring the artifacts back to Jenkins County for public viewing on selected dates as well.

“We’re happy that GSU is temporarily hosting the artifacts. They are the ones that had the vision, did the work and will make sure that we get wide spread exposure,” said Jim Hite of Friends of Magnolia Springs State Park.

“We also look forward to working with anyone in any way to secure a nice, permanent site for the artifacts in Jenkins County, but it won’t happen over night,” he added.

Phil Kloer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, agrees.

“There is a desire and intention on part of the partners to be able to permanently display the artifacts in the area they are found. We are very aware that Jenkins County could really use this economic boost,” he said.

“Plans are already is the works for this. We will look to the future when we have a place where tourists will come from around the world to see the Camp Lawton that has been restored for their enjoyment as well as for the citizens of Jenkins County and for our economic gain,” Mrs. Jenkins said.

For now, patience is the virtue needed, all agree.

The site of Fort Lawton may be visited at Magnolia Springs State Park which is open to the public 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily.

(Editor’s Note: See full report from Mrs. Jenkins on editorial page.)