VALDOSTA — Driving into Valdosta on the James Beck Overpass, the building of 109 S. Ashley St. is no longer just another vacant structure. 

Downtown Valdosta has gained the new headquarters of a city staple since 1937: the Coleman Talley Law Firm.

Previously located on Patterson Street outside of downtown, the firm, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce, City of Valdosta and several other community members gathered this week in front of the new business for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Partner George Talley said the move is fitting since the firm has represented the City of Vadosta since 1947.

“We’ve come back downtown,” Talley said. “Downtown is where we belong and hope to be here a long time.”

The law firm’s new building is made up of four stories, offices, conference rooms and open seating spaces peppered throughout.

With a color scheme of blues and browns, the firm shoots for a clean-lined, modern look.

It’s a beautiful addition to the revitalization of Downtown Valdosta, Mayor John Gayle said, and he is hopeful businesses and other offices will follow.

“This business is going to bring others here — restaurants, sandwich shops and things like that — to increase the service level in Downtown Valdosta,” Gayle said. “I’m proud for Coleman Talley, and I’m proud they located here.”

Even with modern interior touches — light wood floors, variations of potted plants and integrative smart technology synced throughout — the Coleman Talley firm pays homage to its predecessors of 109 S. Ashley St.

For example, a second floor conference room boasts the name of “Coca-Cola Room,” a nod to the second floor’s previous purpose of being a Coca-Cola bottling location back in the 1920s.

The art hanging in a few of the conference rooms recognizes the building’s history. It was once two separate buildings until Southern Salvage joined the two buildings together in 1954.

“In 2018, we are happy and proud to be part of Downtown Valdosta again,” said Henry Russ, a law firm partner. “Coleman Talley with Mr. Lamar Tillman started out on the corner here on Lee Street, and it was there until 1983. We’ve really come back home so to speak here in District 2.”

The law firm is now open for business at its newest location, practicing law in the areas of business, real estate, litigation, estate planning and government. Coleman Talley also has a second location in Atlanta. 

Katelyn Umholtz is a reporter with the Valdosta Daily Times. She can be contacted at (229)244-3400 ext. 1256.