Life Through A Lens

Nestled on the northern edge of the Okefenokee, Waycross, Georgia is a town often overlooked by the average traveler. For most, Waycross exists as a cut through, a mere pit-stop on the way to Valdosta, a landmark for parents to say "Yes, sweetie we're almost there.."

But for the atypical, it represents a haven of history just waiting to be explored. 

Known back in the day for being literally the "crossing of the ways," Waycross was home to the junction of the Savannah Railroad and a line from Brunswick to Albany. After a period of time, however, the rails were rerouted and a new depot was built to accommodate the updated path.

But for a girl who loves all things "aged", the real magic of this town lies in the original depot.

The one deserted and left to rot when some fancy engineer laid the plans for the new rails and the fresh depot a few miles up the road.

Overgrown and deteriorating, this old depot doesn't attract many visitors. But with the help of an active imagination and a keen eye this historic site comes to life.

When its original purpose was no longer needed, the building was used over the years as a storage unit.

Bags of perlite, rusted hardware, and an antique cash register give an idea of  who utilized the space.

Nevertheless, the main attraction, the "diamond in the rough,"if you will, is hidden on the far west of the building.

 If you're brave enough to challenge the multitude of mysterious vines that block the path, you will find a real treasure- one that brings to life this forgotten location.
Underneath a layer of dirt and rust sits two metal safes

that, due to its overgrown surroundings, have likely remained stationary since 

the operation of the original depot.

Measuring nearly 5 feet long by 3 feet wide and at least 3 feet deep, these two safes lie on the ground locked and loyal to their native home. Who knows what may be tucked away inside, but I like to imagine some fabulous sum of money placed inside by a mustached man in a dapper suit somewhere around 1924. But that's just me :)

If you are ever in the South East, I recommend taking a day trip to Waycross and experiencing the charm of a southern rail town for yourself.