THOMASVILLE — The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s annual Spring Ramble in Thomasville turned out to be the largest the organization has had.

More than 600 people signed up for the event, with stops at nearly four dozen homes and sites over three days. The itinerary included Metcalfe and dozens of historic homes in Thomasville.

Visitors came away impressed with the Rose City.

“it is just as wonderful as we’d always heard,”  said Susan Parker. “We’re loving it. The homeowners have been fabulous and welcoming.”

“It’s great, and the people have been great, too” said Sandra Galvin.

The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation presented 29 awards recognizing the best of preservation in Georgia during its 42nd annual Preservation Awards ceremony.

Kehoe Iron Works in Savannah received the Marguerite Williams Award, presented annually to the project that has had the greatest impact on preservation in the state. The building also received an award for Excellence in Rehabilitation.

Kehoe Iron Works was recognized for the sheer scale and impact of its rehabilitation while overcoming significant challenges, including remediation of a brownfield site. 

Today the complex features 8,000 square feet for events and gatherings and an outdoor plaza and amphitheater featuring a commanding view of the Savannah River. This project is an excellent example of the vision and historic preservation ethic that has brought an important piece of the city’s industrial, cultural and architectural history back to life.

The Georgia Trust also presented awards for Excellence in Restoration, Rehabilitation, Sustainable Rehabilitation, Preservation, Preservation Service and Stewardship. The Historic Post Office in Thomasville received an award for Excellence in Rehabilitation.