Thomaston-Upson Archives

The Archives opened in 1996. We house historic records as early as 1821, and a large variety of local government records including court dockets, minute books, tax digests, and much more. Our mission is to preserve, manage, and maximize local history. Therefore, we collect and preserve a number of records that document the activities of the local community, churches, businesses, and civic organizations. Over 3,000 visitors and researchers travel from across the United States and from other countries to use our facilities. 

A full-time archivist, professional staff, and volunteers are available to assist patrons.

New in 2023: “Thomaston Goes to War…on the Home Front” Exhibition

Visit the “Thomaston Goes to War…on the Home Front” Exhibition and discover how one small town made big contributions to gain a World War II Allied victory. This multi-site display is a collaborative project between the Thomaston-Upson Archives and Upson Historical Society which tells the story of the endurance and mettle of the Greatest Generation as well as how World War II brought the country together in such a meaningful way. Both sites illustrate how the people of Thomaston and communities across Georgia banded together as a collective whole to fight the Axis. No job was too small, from the Armed Forces to American Red Cross volunteers, down to the children participating in scrap metal drives, winning the war was a joint effort by all.

Enter the Thomaston-Upson Archives to be captivated by the extraordinary efforts put forth by the local industries in producing critical wartime materials, especially textiles. Upson County played a vital role in the war by supplying 3 out of 5 of the most needed wartime products – tire cord, duck cloth, and mica. Realize the vast amount of textile production that took place in Thomaston and gain an understanding of textile processes and what it took to turn raw materials into essential wartime products. Find out how the war opened new opportunities for women including working outside the home and participating in the military effort by joining branches such as the Women’s Auxiliary Corps (WAC) and the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES). Explore military life by viewing authentic uniforms with arm patches that each have a story to tell, examine correspondence such as a v-mail, and listen to oral history recordings of gripping war stories and experiences told by local veterans.

The Thomaston-Upson Archives is located in the former George Harrison Memorial Library Building at 301 S. Center Street in Thomaston. Our hours are Monday-Friday, from 9 AM-5 PM.

Step back in time when you visit the Upson Historical Society’s Pettigrew-White-Stamps House Museum, c. 1833, where the inside of the home has been transformed into a typical residence during World War II and visitors can immerse themselves in 1940s home life. Move from room to room to discover 1940s interior design trends which included vibrant colors and patterns to bring cheer during unsettling times. Experience changes in technology such as the introduction of electricity and how it affected home life and the importance of radios inside the home. Unearth how a local novelist influenced the passing of the National Leprosy Act based on her experiences as a war bride and understand how community members contributed to the war effort each in their own way. In one area of the home dedicated to changing exhibitions 4 times per year, visitors will have to opportunity to absorb new featured topics that further express Thomaston’s World War II heritage and the critical role that Georgia towns like Thomaston played.

The Pettigrew-White-Stamps Home now has regular hours! Visit them Tuesday & Thursday, from 9:00 AM-4:00 PM, or the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. They are located at 800 S. Church Street in Thomaston.

For tours of 5 or more or general questions, please contact the Upson Historical Society at (706) 601-3610 or upsonhistoricalsociety1968@gmail.com. Visit their website at https://upsonhistoricalsociety.org/