CALDWELL & COWAN FUNERAL HOME

trains. It was the last mule-driven public transit operation in the nation when it ended service in 1917.

The Jefferson-Lamar Camp No. 305 of the United Confederate Veterans unveiled and dedicated the Confederate Monument in its current spot in April 1906.

At the time, all streets and sidewalks were unpaved and dust was a constant problem for Downton Covington residents. Paved sidewalks came to the city in 1912 the city with paved streets following in 1925.

Despite larger retailers like Belk began to move away from the Square to occupy the ever-expanding Highway 278 in the 1950s, the area maintained its status as the center of government.

While other Georgia counties were moving their government administrative facilities and courthouses away from traditional county centers, Newton County leaders’ decisions to build new courthouse and government administrative facilities adjacent to the Square in the 1990s and 2000s helped keep the area vibrant.

Ramsey Furniture on Clark Street was founded in 1919 and is one of the oldest, continuously operating businesses on or near the Covington Square. Town House Cafe on Washington Street is also a longtime business and has operated downtown since 1964.

Other longtime Covington Square retailers included White’s Department Store at the corner of Monticello and Washington streets (now Bread & Butter Bakery); Pool’s and People’s Drug Store, both on Monticello Street; The Bank of Covington on Clark Street (now BB&T); and City Pharmacy at Church and Floyd streets (now City Pharmacy restaurant).

Add places like Western Auto, Dietz’s on Monticello Street and Covington Supply Co./Goodyear at the corner of College and Church streets to the list as well.

On its website, Mystic Grill restaurant reported the various businesses that operated in its historic building next to the Historic Courthouse on Clark Street.

“Over the years it has been home to many businesses such as Peggy Lee dress shop, Sears, Kesler’s Billiard Parlor and Pool’s Shoes, Butter Cup Bakery, Mickey’s Grill and Alexander & Royston law firm just to name a few.

“Also, on this lot in 1883, stood a saloon belonging to “Col.” Robert Bagby who still makes his presence known here on occasion.