Karl Riles
Guest Columnist
Liberty County isn’t just where we live — it’s who we are. Our name carries weight, rooted in history and rich with meaning.
It was no accident that in 1777, this place was named “Liberty” in honor of Georgia’s Declaration of Independence signers, Lyman Hall and Button Gwinnett. From the very beginning, this community has stood for freedom, courage, and the power of self-determination, even when doing so came at great risk. That legacy didn’t end with the Revolution. Years later, places such as Dorchester Academy quietly shaped the future of America through their role in the Civil Rights Movement. And today, that same spirit lives on in Fort Stewart, the proud home of the 3rd Infantry Division — our neighbors and friends — defending liberty at home and around the world. Liberty County has always been on the front lines of freedom. From colonial times to modern-day service members, our story is one of perseverance and purpose. That’s why the name Liberty means so much more than geography. It’s our identity. It sets us apart, binds us together, and reminds us what we stand for.
This is exactly why the word Liberty should be front and center in how we present ourselves, through our branding, our events, our economic development, and our shared story. It’s not just a nice name. It’s a powerful message. One that people remember.
I’ll be honest, sometimes we locals might feel like we see “Liberty” on everything. But when you step outside our borders, it resonates. When I travel and mention “I’m from Hinesville in Liberty County” — named for liberty, because two of Georgia’s three signers of the Declaration of Independence came from here and home to Fort Stewart, the largest military installation east of the Mississippi, and the 3rd Infantry Division. People stop. They listen. They remember. Even our I-95 Exit 76 feels like a nod to 1776 and our place in the American story. Imagine what we could do if we treated that exit like a true gateway, not just a turnoff. Thoughtful landscaping, lighting, signage — all pointing the way to the rich history of Midway and Riceboro, and the deeper story of liberty that runs through them.
What if we took that a step further? What if we hosted a signature July 4th celebration right here in Hinesville — the heart of Liberty County? A true destination event. Not just fireworks, but a full festival that honors our heritage, highlights our culture, and celebrates the liberty that gives our county its name. With partners like Fort Stewart and their already successful Salute to Summer, we could be halfway there.
Picture a revitalized historical trail — one that brings together our colonial roots, civil rights landmarks, and military pride. With the right investment and vision, these aren’t just sites on a map — they’re anchors for tourism, education, and economic growth, especially given our proximity to the tourism-powerhouse that is Savannah.
I know this isn’t a new conversation — many hands have worked on this over the years. But maybe the moment is right. Maybe now is the time to link Liberty and truly elevate what “Liberty” means for all of us.
The countywide workshop recently launched a planning effort for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. That kind of collaboration could be the spark that lights a long-lasting tradition — one that brings prosperity, unity, and pride to every corner of our county.
Right now, our streets are lined with American flags. There’s even a giant Uncle Sam downtown. But I believe we can take it even further. Let’s live up to the name we carry. Let’s dream bigger and build a future that reflects everything Liberty stands for.
As a member of the Liberty County Development Authority, I can share that we’re about to begin a rebranding process. And you better believe that our history and our heart will be part of that vision. There’s more to come, and I’m proud to be part of it.
Because here in Liberty County liberty still lives.
Karl Riles is mayor of Hinesville and a member of the Liberty County Development Authority.