Scope and Contents On January 11, 1877, W. H. and T. S. McKey sold six acres of land to Robert Troup for the sum of sixty dollars. The property was located in Lowndes County, Georgia, in the 12th District, and was described as part of Lot No. 1. The deed provides measurements of the tract, noting that it extends approximately 140 yards from the commencement point on the western boundary and 200 yards northward, defining the six-acre parcel.The sellers conveyed the land to Robert Troup, his heirs and assigns...

Overview In this oral history interview, Lydia Williams reflects on her lifelong connection to Riverhill Missionary Baptist Church and the Jones Community in Valdosta, Georgia. She recounts childhood memories of worship, Easter programs, choir anniversaries, and the church's earlier location before its relocation. Williams also discusses the church's influence on her faith, education, and commitment to public service, while sharing her experiences growing up during school integration and becoming one...

Overview Brenda Williams shares her lifelong connection to Riverhill Missionary Baptist Church, describing its role in shaping her faith, values, and commitment to service. She recalls childhood traditions such as Sunday school collections, union meetings, church fellowships, and community gatherings. Williams discusses her many roles within the church, including youth activities, ministries, and support for church members, emphasizing the importance of fellowship and outreach. She reflects on her...

Overview This oral history interview with Rechell Thomas explores her lifelong connection to Riverhill Missionary Baptist Church and the influence of family, faith, and community on her personal and professional journey. Thomas shares memories of growing up in a church-centered family, the roles her relatives held within the congregation, youth programs, worship traditions, and community activities. She discusses how Riverhill shaped her values of service, acceptance, fellowship, and giving back,...

Scope and Contents The Macedonia Community Collection document the rich history and heritage of the Macedonia Community in Morven, Brooks County, Georgia. Developed in partnership with the Macedonia Community Foundation and Valdosta State University Archives and Special Collections, this collection brings together a variety of digitized materials—including photographs, family histories, memoirs, letters, folktales, books, and school reunion records—spanning from the 1880s to 2023. These resources capture the...

Scope and Contents From the Collection: Riverhill Missionary Baptist Church was formally organized under Rev. Robert Troupe in 1873 by a group of worshippers who previously attended nearby Macedonia Baptist Church. Shortly thereafter—about three-quarters of a mile up the old River Street Road—Sister Amy Wilson and fellow congregants built and named the first church edifice; the “River Hill” name has remained in use ever since. Over the years, under leaders such as Rev. H. B. Bland, the congregation weathered periods of trial and...