By way of the dahlia
The Dahlia Event Center in Vidalia, Georgia, proudly takes its name from the city’s historical roots and the charming story of how Vidalia got its name. Vidalia was incorporated on January 1, 1890, and was originally called Jenkins Station after local landowner Warren T. Jenkins. The city's current name is attributed to one of the daughters of Samuel Hawkins, president of the Savannah, Americus, and Montgomery Railroad. Though the exact origins are unclear, it is believed that Hawkins' daughter either discovered the name on a document referring to Vidalia, Louisiana, or she creatively combined the words "via" and "dahlia" to form the name "Vidalia"—meaning "by the route of the dahlias." This fascinating connection to the beautiful dahlia flower lends itself as the perfect namesake for the Dahlia Event Center, offering a setting with a touch of history and elegance.