Historical Markers in Baker County, Georgia
The state of Georgia was once home to a thriving film industry, with Hollywood studios establishing themselves in Atlanta in the early 20th century. However, the industry largely moved to California after the introduction of sound in films made outdoor filming difficult due to the noise pollution of the city.
About Baker County
Baker County Timeline
Baker County, Georgia, has a rich history that dates back to before its establishment. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Creek Nation, who hunted and farmed on the land. In the early 19th century, European settlers began to arrive, gradually displacing the Native American population.
The county was officially created on December 12, 1825, and was named after Colonel John Baker, a prominent leader in the area and one of Georgia's first state senators. Initially, Baker County covered a much larger area than it does today, extending into what is now part of neighboring counties.
Throughout the 19th century, agriculture played a vital role in Baker County's economy. Cotton was the primary crop grown on large plantations, which relied heavily on enslaved labor. This reliance on slavery persisted until the Civil War, when the institution was abolished.
Baker County's economy continued to heavily focus on agriculture even after the Civil War, with a shift towards small-scale farming by independent farmers. Today, the county's economy remains largely agricultural, with crops such as peanuts, soybeans, and corn being grown. The county also boasts natural resources, including timber and livestock. Baker County continues to preserve its history through museums and historic sites, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past and the rich heritage of the area.
The county was officially created on December 12, 1825, and was named after Colonel John Baker, a prominent leader in the area and one of Georgia's first state senators. Initially, Baker County covered a much larger area than it does today, extending into what is now part of neighboring counties.
Throughout the 19th century, agriculture played a vital role in Baker County's economy. Cotton was the primary crop grown on large plantations, which relied heavily on enslaved labor. This reliance on slavery persisted until the Civil War, when the institution was abolished.
Baker County's economy continued to heavily focus on agriculture even after the Civil War, with a shift towards small-scale farming by independent farmers. Today, the county's economy remains largely agricultural, with crops such as peanuts, soybeans, and corn being grown. The county also boasts natural resources, including timber and livestock. Baker County continues to preserve its history through museums and historic sites, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past and the rich heritage of the area.
Baker County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Baker County, Georgia.
- 1825 - Baker County is established as a county in the state of Georgia.
- 1833 - The county's first courthouse is built in Newton, the county seat at the time.
- 1836 - The Creek Indians are forcibly removed from their land in the area, opening it up for settlement.
- 1852 - The county seat is moved from Newton to the newly established town of Milford.
- 1861 - The American Civil War begins, and Baker County sends many of its residents to fight in the Confederate Army.
- 1865 - The Civil War ends, and the process of Reconstruction begins in Baker County.
- 1906 - The town of Newton is incorporated and becomes the county seat once again.
- 1941 - The Georgia Warm Springs Foundation, now known as Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation, is founded in Warm Springs.
- 1986 - Flooding caused by Tropical Storm Alberto devastates parts of Baker County.
- 2003 - The town of Milford is disincorporated, and Newton becomes the sole incorporated municipality in the county.