Town of Shady Dale

Shady Dale experienced a decline during the depression era. Shipping transportation moved from trains to trucks, the Georgia State capitol was moved from Milledgeville to Atlanta, and many of the town’s citizens transferred to the larger town of Monticello or other areas of the state. In 1968, the Shady Dale Hotel burned. Most of the town’s aged buildings have been torn down. However, a couple of buildings including the jail (now housing city hall), a bank building, and a cotton gin still exist. Also, a number of the town’s old homes remain.

Shady Dale businesses include two pallet operations, a feed mill, an egg operation, a cabinet shop and an auto repair shop. Two convenience stores flank either side of the town. The Shady Dale Post Office stands at its center, next to the old will, first used as a stage coach stop, then for the town’s water supply.

Three churches are located within the Shady Dale City limits, all of which have long histories. Providence Baptist Church, Calvary United Methodist Church, and Mt. Zion Methodist A.M.E., all date from the 1800’s. Greenwood Baptist Church, also dating from the 1800’s is located just outside the city limits.

The popular Shady Dale Rodeo brings famous cowboys and rodeo fans together annually. As a national rodeo even, it pays thousands to its participants while raising money for the Masonic charities.

Shady Dale, a state Qualified Local Government, consists of an elected mayor and five council members. These officials set policy of the town’s water system supplied from the three deep wells, its two park and recreational operations which offer a respite for tourists and a family picnic area, zoning and the local volunteer fire department. The Shady Dale fire department is comprised of well-equipped certified volunteers and considered to be one of the best fire departments in the state. The city clerk and the zoning administrator are the town’s only employees.

In the 1990’s and with the population still remaining around 160, Shady Dale is a pleasant community for retirees and young families eager to raise their children in a country-like setting. The bucolic nature of the town, its quiet serenity, its tranquil surroundings, and unique history all serve as a mecca for those tired of big city living.

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