Lyons Welcome Center Highlights Local History

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The new Lyons Welcome Center and Altamaha Heritage Museum has officially opened its doors to become the one-stop shop to learn more about the history of the area, local goods and shops, and more.

The Welcome Center is overseen by Director Lindsey Wiggins, a Toombs County native with a passion for sharing information about her hometown. “I am passionate about Lyons because it is a rich, deeply rooted city with a diverse array of families, including my own,” she emphasized. “I admire how Lyons continually strives to grow and fosters a spirit of community service. In this role, I am honored to shine a light on a city that means so much to me and to showcase its continued from page

vitality, along with the local goods produced within our own city. It’s truly a privilege that they saw potential in me to represent this amazing, thriving, and ever-evolving city.”

Wiggins has worked with the Lyons Main Street Association and others within the city to create exhibits in the facility that showcase relics from the city’s rich past. “The exhibits at the Welcome Center showcase a fascinating range of topics, from the history of turpentine to the intriguing world of moonshine. You'll also nd displays related to Lyons, including memorabilia from the Vidalia-Lyons Twins Minor League baseball team and the Soap Box Derby race car,” she explained.

The Director added, “It’s crucial for us to learn about our local history, as understanding the past helps us improve ourselves and shape a better future. I’ve always believed that learning from history is key to creating a brighter tomorrow. By showcasing Lyons’ rich and deep history, I hope to serve as a beacon of light, reminding everyone of the valuable lessons and heritage that shape our community.

These relics were collected through donations by local citizens, as the Center works alongside the public. According to Wiggins, the Center plans to showcase local art in the future, including paintings, books, and photos, as she said the facility will evolve and add to its current collection as time goes on.

In addition to these exhibits, the Welcome Center also sells local products and merchandise in an effort to promote the area. “At the Lyons Welcome Center, you'll find a diverse selection of local items available for purchase. These include honey, olive oil, Soap Box Derby car kits, books by local authors, t-shirts, hats, and charcuterie boards. We also offer Dr. Pete Products, featuring scone mixes and glazes, among other treats,” Wiggins shared.

“I’m thrilled about the opportunity to showcase Lyons' rich history and contribute to our city by offering local products and a unique place for ex ploration,” the Director emphasized. “It’s exciting to provide a space that highlights items made right here in our community. I look forward to delivering excellent service, discovering more local goods, and exploring future items that will enrich our offerings. Additionally, I’m excited to meet those shopping with us locally, as well as visitors who join us during events throughout the year.”

The Welcome Center is a project which the City and Lyons Main Street has been working on for many years, according to Lyons Main Street Association Director Daphne Walker. She said that the facility will continue to be improved in the coming days to ensure that the true spirit of the community and its history are captured within the Center.

The facility is open on Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., and from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. each Friday. For more information, call (912) 5266445.

VISITING THE PAST – Some of the relics which Lyons Main Street Association Executive Director Daphne Walker (shown) has collected include a lifesize Smokey the Bear figure, which was donated by a community member, and a moonshine still, which was seized from moonshiners in the area during Prohibition.Photo by Makaylee Randolph

WELCOME CENTER DIRECTOR – Lyons Welcome Center Director Lindsey Wiggins is originally from Toombs County, and is passionate about promoting her hometown to visitors.Photo by Makaylee Randolph

SHOWCASING SOAPBOX – Retired Lyons Main Street Association Administrative Assistant Kathy Sharpe sits in the soapbox derby car from the Blue Lightning film, which was filmed in Toombs County. The car is on display within the Lyons Welcome Center’s exhibits.Photo by Makaylee Randolph