The Old Governor's Mansion

(33) years, actually (39) because she worked another 6 years part time. Olivia dedicated 39 years of her life to Georgia College, its first families and The Old Governor's Mansion at Milledgeville.

Has any other person, be it governor, college president or otherwise, served the old governor's mansion for so long?

During Olivia's tenure the mansion served as the home for presidents of Georgia State College for Women, the Women's College of Georgia, Georgia College and since 1996, what is now, Georgia College & State University.

As Guardian, Olivia was Domestic Worker, later Tour Guide for inhabitants, visitors, tourists and guest of honor to the Old Governor’s Mansion and had nothing but praise for her work.

During her tenure, Olivia faithfully served five College Presidents and their families. As Georgia College and State University family member, what are the rewards for being such a dedicated and faithful care-giver?

Dr. Guy H. Wells

Dr. Henry King Stanford
"The whole Stanford family joins me in this warm expression of our best wishes to you"

Dr. Robert E. Lee

Dr. J. Whitney Bunting
"In our estimation no historical residence has ever been so properly managed as the Old Governors Mansion"

Dr. Edwin G. Speir, Jr.
"Your dedicated service has helped to maintain stability of enrollment and support services as well as high educational quality at Georgia College."

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has a logo of an eagle guarding our heritage.

If ever the Mansion had a guardian, it has been OLIVIA. She has earned that title through her dedication. For 39 years her dependability has been constant.

Always in attendance when expected, ever punctual, and thoroughly cognizant of her duties, she has set her own standards of excellence.

This has been evident to the casual tourist, local residents, and members of the Georgia College family.

Her position will be filled, but Olivia will not be replaced! Certainly we could all learn "Pride of Place" from this Special person.

In the minds of those of us who have known Olivia through the years, here is a poem dedicated to her.

As her son, I will share with you a poem drafted by some the more influential residents during those times. They must have known there would be no glorious reward or legacy, commemorating the excellent work of Olivia.

This poem was written to commemorate Olivia's work and includes the names of the five presidents, under which she served: Wells, Stanford, Lee, Bunting and Speir.