Howell in Echols County

If you happen to drive down Georgia Highway 135 in South Central Georgia into rural Echols county, you'll be driving through one of the largest counties with the least amount of people in the entire state of Georgia- there are a little over 4,000 people in this county of 421 square miles, and it's 96% pine forest!

As you drive by the countless pine trees, you will eventually see a few "reduced speed ahead" signs, where you will then pass through a very small unincorporated community by the name of Howell. As you cross the Norfolk Southern Railroad that moves freight between Valdosta & Jacksonville, you'll notice this building next to the railroad commanding your attention as you drive by.

I couldn't find much information on this structure, but it has been abandoned for many years now. It once served the small rural community of Howell with a small general store on the bottom floor that several families worked together to operate. The upstairs was used by the Masons as their lodge!

Jay Blanton | The Georgia Photography Fanatic