The city of Americus–seat of Sumter County, Georgia–has a rich past that stretches back hundreds of years. The people and events that shaped Americus are unique and compelling, and the history of the area shares many parallels with the larger history of the South.

From the pioneer era in southern Georgia to the present day, the triumphs and toils of Sumter County are often mirrored in the story of the South.

Like many Southern communities, Americus features a fascinating heritage, the details of which can surprise even longtime residents. The area’s history overflows with an intriguing cast of characters whose exploits have helped to enrich the colorful story of Americus. This portion of southern Georgia has also played host to more than its fair share of famous personalities, from C.S.A. President Jefferson Davis at the end of the Civil War to Yasser Arafat, who visited President Jimmy Carter at Sumter County home.

Remembering Americus, Georgia: Essays on Southern Life, by local resident and historian Alan Anderson, is a delightful compilation of historical vignettes drawn from Anderson’s work for the Times-Recorder newspaper in Americus. Anderson’s insightful and entertaining writings offer a glimpse into the history of Americus and Sumter County, and reveal how the area’s past is reflected in the history of the South.