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Meet Dublin's Keeper of History

Scott Thompson is more than a local historian—he’s Dublin’s living memory.

For decades, Scott has collected artifacts, photographs, and stories that capture the heart of Dublin and Laurens County. His research and dedication have shaped both the Downtown Dublin and Historic Bellevue walking tours, and in 2001, he uncovered a remarkable piece of history: Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his first speech in Dublin.

A passion for history and genealogy runs deep in Scott’s veins, inspired by his grandmother and fueled by a lifelong curiosity.

He has authored two Images of America books: Images of America: Laurens County and Images of America: Dublin, The Emerald City. Through his weekly columns in The Courier Herald, Scott continues to share the stories, people, and moments that make Dublin unique. As he says, “The buildings are not the history, but the lives of the people that have occupied them.” His treasured collection includes thousands of historical items, from photographs to documents—and his favorite, his grandfather’s cash register, still containing the items from his country store in the 1970s.

Scott’s work reminds us that history isn’t just something to read about—it’s something to experience, appreciate, and carry forward. Every artifact he preserves, every story he uncovers, and every photo he shares connects us to the lives that built this community. Thanks to Scott, Dublin’s past isn’t just remembered—it’s alive for everyone.

Step into Dublin’s story—explore the tours, visit the exhibits, and see history through Scott’s eyes.

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Arilyn Erickson

*Cue Hamilton music* How does an artistic, eccentric, sister of five, and a Cajun, dropped in the middle of a forgotten spot in a Southeastern state by parental job prospects, end up Visit Dublin GA’s Project Manager? Fresh from graduating with her bachelor’s in psychology, Arilyn Erickson started work at Visit Dublin GA in December of 2021. Her love of helping people, knowledge of Dublin, curiosity, and creative spirit are exhibited in her ability to ensure guests are well informed and comfortable, contribute fresh ideas for improving the Visitors Center and developing tourism products, and promoting local businesses, locations, and events via our website and social media. Arilyn enjoys singing to the plants in the Visitors Center gardens (the Rosalynn Carter Pollinator Pitstop was one of her first projects), playing with traveler’s furbabies, posting aesthetic photography (especially food and unique outdoor scenes), and creating extra punny blogs.