Okefenokee Heritage Center

The culture and history of Waycross and the surrounding areas are celebrated at the Okefenokee Heritage Center. The regional art and history museum sits among 20 acres of beautiful pine woodlands in Waycross where it has educated and entertained locals and visitors for more than 30 years with its exhibits and community events.

The center’s ‘Ol Nine Locomotive draws some of the biggest crowds. The 1912 Baldwin steam locomotive weighs 100 tons and has been impeccably restored to illustrate the railroad’s significant impact on Waycross’ development. The exhibit includes three other rail cars, making it 365 feet of rolling history.

Exhibits at the center also highlight the contribution of African Americans in Waycross, the founders of the city, native American impacts on the area, a look back at Sacred Harp music, and the history of newspapers in Waycross.

Rock music fans won’t want to miss a special exhibit chronicling the life of local product Gram Parsons, creator of what he called “cosmic American music,” who quietly was one of the most influential people in rock and roll history. Parsons’ influence can be heard in bands like The Rolling Stones and The Eagles.

Heritage Center events include an annual color run 5K, held in April, art competitions, quilting and photography guilds, summer camps and the Local Fare Market. The center offers several levels of membership and classes are available as well.

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