Richland Rum Revives a Forgotten Town | Albany Georgia News

Albany Georgia News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 9, 2026 · 1m

Once a thriving railroad town with bustling businesses and a Coca-Cola bottling plant, Richland, Georgia, now battles empty storefronts and fading population—but hope is brewing. Richland Rum, a craft distillery in historic downtown buildings, draws thousands annually and has won national acclaim, using local well water to honor the town’s “rich land” roots. Locals like antique store owner Kathy Blackburn cherish the quiet charm but miss the old community hub—a restaurant. Volunteers with Better Hometown keep the area tidy and vibrant, celebrating new spots like a bed and breakfast and…