Introduction to Vidalia, Georgia
Vidalia, Georgia, in Toombs county, is 77 miles W of Savannah, Georgia and 137 miles N of Jacksonville, Florida.
Vidalia History
Vidalia is located in the heart of what was once the famous wiregrass section of Georgia. It became a town when the area was made accessible by the Savannah, Americus and Montgomery Railroad. There are some discrepancies in the records of how the town got its name. According to some sources, Vidalia was named after Jose Vidal, a Spanish army officer. However, it is now believed that the community was actually named in honor of the daughter of Sam Hawkins, the president and principal owner of the S. A. & M. railroad, Vidalia Hawkins. Vidalia has been known as the "Sweet Onion Capital of the World" ever since Mose Coleman grew the area's first sweet onions in 1931.
Vidalia and nearby Attractions
- Vidalia City Hall
- Altama Museum of Art & History
- Vidalia Presbyterian Church
- Twin Lakes
- Brice Square Shopping Center
Things To Do In Vidalia
For more information on the area and its history, one can visit the Vidalia City Hall and the Vidalia-Toombs County Library. The Altama Museum of Art and History is in the historic Brazell House. It showcases exhibits, including a large porcelain collection. In addition, the city also hosts the Vidalia Onion Festival every April.
Vidalia Transportation
Savannah/ Hilton Head International is the nearest major airport.
Vidalia Higher Education
The Southeastern Technical College is the local institute of higher learning. Georgia Southern University and the Georgia College and State University also offer courses in higher education.
