Camden County Georgia Then & Now!
Camden County has changed dramatically over the decades, but according to Rachel Baldwin, the community’s future depends on remembering its history, appreciating what makes it special and becoming actively involved in shaping what comes next. In this episode of the Get ’N’ Your Business Podcast, host Alison Shores sits down with Rachel, a retired Camden County educator and longtime community advocate, to explore the people, industries and decisions that helped transform Camden County.
Rachel shares memories of first visiting the area in the 1970s, when Highway 17 and Highway 40 did not even have a traffic light and much of the drive between Kingsland and St. Marys was surrounded by trees. She also recalls her early visit to Cumberland Island, long before it became the experience residents and visitors recognize today. The conversation examines how the arrival of Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay brought rapid growth and residents from across the country. While that growth created new opportunities, Rachel emphasizes the importance of protecting Camden County’s identity, natural beauty and sense of community.
Episode Highlights
Camden County’s history runs deep.
Camden was established in 1777 as one of Georgia’s original counties. Rachel explains how waterways, railroads, Highway 17, education and regional partnerships helped connect the county and support its development.The community has experienced several major economic shifts.
The arrival of Gilman Paper created generations of well-paying jobs and significantly influenced local life. When the mill closed in 2002, families and the school system were forced to adjust to a new economic reality.Education became a major part of Camden County’s transformation.
Rachel discusses the county’s former graduation rate of approximately 50.5% in 2000 and the changes that followed, including the Ninth Grade Center, block scheduling, career pathways, youth apprenticeships and expanded technical education.Career and technical programs give students more options.
From robotics and automotive training to fine arts, dual enrollment and apprenticeships, Camden County High School now provides students with opportunities to explore their abilities and discover a path that fits them.The Coastal Pines Technical College campus was decades in the making.
Rachel shares how local leaders spent more than 20 years advocating for technical education in Camden County. The campus now provides residents with valuable training and workforce-development opportunities close to home.Complaining does not improve a community—participation does.
Rachel encourages residents to attend public meetings, read the local newspaper, vote, volunteer and learn the facts before forming opinions. Even small acts of service can create meaningful change.Everyone has something to contribute.
Whether someone lives in Camden County for two years or twenty, Rachel and Alison encourage residents to “bloom where they are planted.” Getting involved can be as simple as supporting a local event, helping a nonprofit, picking up litter or sharing a personal skill.The episode closes with a challenge to residents: stop waiting for someone else to create the community you want. Learn Camden County’s history, celebrate what is already here and find your own way to make it better.
Love where you live—and become part of what makes it worth loving.
Connect, grow, and get involved with the Camden County Chamber of Commerce. Visit the Chamber online to learn more about membership, events, and opportunities in our community.
