Crossroads: Change in Rural America begins its Georgia tour on August 24, 2019. See below for info about local programs.

Throughout Georgia’s history, rural communities and people have met at crossroads to build businesses, schools, houses of worship, and transportation hubs.

Our rural communities have served as the heart of cultural life in our state for generations and have raised and influenced our presidents, our governors, our state officials, and our leaders in business, agriculture, education, and the military.

Within the last century we have seen a shift. Less than 25% of Georgia’s citizens live in our rural communities today even though 75% of Georgia’s 159 counties are classified as rural. Uneven opportunities in rural and urban areas have contributed to this population shift.

Change is an inevitable part of any community’s life.

Crossroads: Change in Rural America will explore how rural communities have continually searched for creative opportunities for growth despite fluctuations brought on by the changing economy, shifting land ownership, and population movements.

The places where people have gathered to exchange goods and services as well as engage in political and community discussions are an important part of our cultural fabric.

Using photos, objects, film, audio, and interactive technology, this Smithsonian exhibition explores broader themes of identity, land, community, persistence, and response to change, as well as the role our rural communities have played in shaping the American cultural landscape.

Each of the six host communities, in partnership with local organizations, has developed programs to accompany the Crossroads exhibition. Those programs will tell local stories of change and resilience. With the support of the exhibition, the accompanying programs will also initiate conversations about what the future holds for Georgia’s rural communities.