Nestled in the heart of south Georgia’s Wiregrass region, Ray City is a charming small town straddling Berrien and Lanier counties, with a population of around 950–1,100 residents. Known for its strong sense of community, peaceful rural atmosphere, and welcoming Southern hospitality, Ray City offers a quiet escape from the hustle of larger nearby cities like Valdosta. The town features local landmarks such as the historic Ray’s Mill Pond, community events, and a close-knit environment where neighbors know one another and traditions endure. Today, Ray City continues to thrive as a place where simple living meets deep-rooted pride in its heritage.
The story of Ray City traces back to the early pioneers who settled the area in the 1820s, including General Levi J. Knight, a prominent Wiregrass settler who homesteaded near Beaverdam Creek. In 1863, amid the challenges of the Civil War era, Knight collaborated with his son-in-law, Thomas M. Ray, to construct a gristmill powered by an earthen dam and millpond on the creek. Beginning operations on November 7, 1863, the mill—initially called Knight and Ray’s Mill—served as a vital hub for grinding grain into meal and flour, drawing settlers and giving rise to the surrounding community. Early names for the settlement included Ray’s Pond and Ray’s Mill, reflecting its origins as a milling center essential to local agriculture and daily life.
The community grew steadily, and in 1909 it was officially incorporated as the town of Rays Mill. Just a few years later, in 1915, residents successfully petitioned to change the name to Ray City—honoring Thomas M. Ray while moving away from the “mill town” identity and embracing a broader vision for the future. This rebranding coincided with the arrival of railroad access, which spurred further development and connectivity. Over the decades, Ray City has preserved its historical essence through local efforts, including community libraries and historical documentation, while evolving into a modern small town that celebrates its pioneer roots and enduring spirit of resilience.