Walter F. George

Historical marker location:

6330 Hamilton Street, Preston, Georgia

( Marker is on Hamilton Street (U.S. 280) 0 miles east of Washington Street, on the left when traveling east.)

Marker installed: 1983

1878-1957.

In the early 20th century, Georgia was known for its "convict leasing" system, which allowed companies to lease prisoners from the state for labor. The system was abolished in 1908 after investigations revealed widespread abuse and mistreatment of prisoners.