National Register Listing

Johnson County Courthouse

Courthouse Sq., Wrightsville, GA
Local significance of the building:
Economics; Law; Politics/government; Architecture; Communications

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

economics law politics government architecture communications courthouses buildings
The first gold rush in America happened in Georgia in 1828, when gold was discovered in the northwestern part of the state. This discovery led to the creation of the Dahlonega Mint, which produced gold coins until the outbreak of the Civil War.
Georgia random facts
Johnson County, located in central Georgia, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The county was established on December 11, 1858, and was named after Georgia governor Herschel Vespasian Johnson. Prior to its establishment, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee.

In the early years, Johnson County developed primarily as an agricultural community. The fertile land and mild climate made it suitable for farming, and cotton became a major cash crop. Many large plantations were established, and slavery was widespread in the area. The county also saw the construction of railroads, which facilitated the transportation of goods and helped boost the local economy.

During the Civil War, Johnson County experienced significant disruptions. Many men from the county enlisted in the Confederate Army, resulting in a loss of manpower for agricultural production. The county was also impacted by the war's economic downturn and the abolition of slavery. After the war, efforts were made to rebuild the community and diversify the economy.

Over time, Johnson County evolved into a more diverse and industrialized area. While agriculture remained an important part of the local economy, other industries such as manufacturing, timber, and textiles also emerged. The county's population gradually increased, and new educational institutions and infrastructure developments, including schools and roads, were established to support the growing community.

Today, Johnson County continues to honor its agricultural roots while embracing modern advancements. The county is known for its beautiful landscapes, including vast farmlands and picturesque forests. With a strong sense of community and a commitment to progress, Johnson County has become a vibrant and thriving part of Georgia's history.

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

  • 1796 - Johnson County was established on December 11.
  • 1820s - The county's first courthouse, made of logs, was built.
  • 1850s - Johnson County experienced significant growth due to the arrival of the railroad.
  • 1861-1865 - During the Civil War, many Johnson County residents fought for the Confederacy.
  • 1888 - The county's first newspaper, "The Wrightsville Record," was founded.
  • 1905 - Wrightsville, the county seat, was officially incorporated.
  • 1920s - The economy of Johnson County relied heavily on agriculture, particularly cotton.
  • 1960s - Many Johnson County residents actively participated in the Civil Rights Movement.
  • 1988 - The county celebrated its Bicentennial.