The noise of marching feet and gunshots reached his ears halted as he and his troops entered the town.

Along the streets nestled quaint Antebellum homes, cherry-topped with porch-side gardens and lush greenery.

He saw the people of the homes peeping over their window sills, wondering what was about to happen as his troops marched down the street and into the square. Upon entering the deserted square, he stopped and gazed around. As the silence drew in and the company came to a halt, a soldier came to his side and hesitantly asked, “Should we bring on the fire, General Sherman?”

Looking around, he was taken away by the mystifying beauty radiating from the village. He slowly shook his head and replied, “No, this town will remain just as it is.”

Known as “the town Sherman refused to burn,” Madison indeed seeps with Southern history, beauty and splendor. This town, which is located about 30 miles south of Athens, is home to some 100 of Georgia’s most beautiful homes.

Throughout the year, Madison offers an array of historical, scenic and tasteful pleasures, perfect for a romantic date or a delightful afternoon visit.

Along with its historical title, Madison is also home to the first grade school of Georgia. The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, as it is called, is now a charming museum available to the public. The cost is $2 for students.

For those who think that museums are boring, don’t be fooled – this antique schoolhouse is a very interesting building decorated with dusty chalkboards, an old auditorium and squeaky wooden floors that hold a lot of history.

Other great attractions of Madison include Heritage Hall and Rose Cottage, both of which cost about $2 to see.

However, the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, the scenic side streets and the square are usually the main and most attractive destinations. The museums tend to close around 4 p.m.

Other great destinations in the area are the various parks and recreational sights around Madison.

“My favorite place is the track and baseball fields because I am always there playing sports, but the park in town is a nice place to go and hang out,” said Parker Cline, a resident of Madison and a junior at Morgan County High School.

As far as food goes, the square is the best place to treat visitors’ taste buds and their wallets.

Most restaurants on the square are good bets, but the best and most famous is The Chop House, which is located a little further from the square on Main Street.

The reason that this place sizzles, other than its popular food, is the famous homemade honey butter and bread.

After dinner, those who are up for dessert can stop by Scoops, the square’s ice cream shop. The treats are delicious and the service is sweet enough to leave anyone feeling especially warm inside during the cold winter months.

Some of the most popular shops are Laughing Moon, Attic Treasures and a few other antique stores.

The Laughing Moon is unique because of the homemade and out-of-the-ordinary gifts and treasures that it has to offer. Those who want a treat should check out the upstairs, but be aware of the prices. This shop is great for eye candy, but not for most college students’ budgets.

Also, Attic Treasures is filled with interesting nicknacks that may be new to some eyes. But again, the prices are a little high.

Madison is by far one of the most beautiful towns in Georgia.

Even if for just an afternoon drive, this town will surprise you with the warmth of its welcome.