Historical Markers in
Baldwin County, Georgia

Alexis de Tocqueville Baldwin County Veterans Memorial Birthplace of Charles Holmes Herty Brown-Stetson-Sanford House Campsite of Union Army Carl Vinson • Mary Green Vinson Cedar Lane Cemetery Cemetery Square Cobb's Quarter, Sherman's Campsite De Soto in Georgia Dr. Charles Holmes Herty Flannery O'Connor's Andalusia Farm Fort Wilkinson Georgia State Penitentiary Georgia's Secession Convention Howell Cobb Plantation In Commemoration of Marquis De Lafayette Jarrett Springs John Clark House Junction of 20th and 14th Corps Masonic Temple of Benevolent Lodge No 3, F. & A. M. Memory Hill Cemetery Milledgeville Confederate Monument Milledgeville State Hospital Montpelier Old Fort Fidius Old Fort Wilkinson Old Governor’s Mansion Old Oglethorpe University Old State Capitol Provost Guard Campsite Rear Admiral John W. Wilcox Route of Gen. Kilpatrick’s Cavalry Route of the Twentieth Corps Sacred Heart Catholic Church Site of Fort Defiance St. Stephen's Episcopal Church State College State House Square Statehouse Square The Allen Strain The Great Seal of Georgia The March to the Sea The Methodist Church The Milledgeville Hotel and Oliver Hardy The Old Governor's Mansion The Unknown Soldiers of Brown Hospital Tomlinson Fort House Troup-Clark Political Feud
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.
Georgia random facts
Baldwin County, located in central Georgia, has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The county was established in 1803 and named after Abraham Baldwin, a Georgia representative and signer of the United States Constitution. The area was originally home to Creek and Cherokee Native American tribes until European settlers arrived in the late 1700s.

During the early years, agriculture played a significant role in Baldwin County's economy. Cotton plantations were widespread, and enslaved Africans were forced to work in the fields. The county experienced growth and prosperity, attracting more settlers and establishing the city of Milledgeville as its county seat in 1807. Milledgeville served as the capital of Georgia from 1804 to 1868.

In the mid-19th century, Baldwin County played a significant role during the Civil War. The county saw extensive action, including multiple battles and skirmishes, as Union and Confederate forces clashed throughout the region. Many buildings in Milledgeville were used as hospitals and barracks. After the war, Baldwin County experienced a period of reconstruction and recovery, with the economy shifting towards industries such as textiles and manufacturing.

Throughout the 20th century, Baldwin County continued to develop and evolve. The construction of highways and railroads opened up new opportunities for growth and commerce. Education also played a crucial role in the county's development, with the establishment of Georgia College in Milledgeville in 1889. Today, Baldwin County remains a vibrant community, combining its historical legacy with modern amenities and a thriving local economy.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Baldwin County, Georgia.

  • 1803: Baldwin County is established by the Georgia General Assembly.
  • 1807: Milledgeville is designated as the county seat of Baldwin County.
  • 1811: The county courthouse in Milledgeville is completed.
  • 1825: Baldwin County is divided to create Bibb County.
  • 1841: The Central State Hospital is established in Milledgeville.
  • 1864: During the American Civil War, Milledgeville is briefly occupied by Union troops.
  • 1868: Baldwin County's courthouse is destroyed in a fire.
  • 1871: Construction of a new courthouse in Milledgeville is completed.
  • 1906: The Georgia State Sanitarium is opened in Milledgeville.
  • 1980: The Georgia Department of Corrections opens the Baldwin State Prison in Milledgeville.
  • 1997: Baldwin County celebrates its bicentennial.