Bowens, Eddie, Farm
a.k.a. Seabrook Village Foundation
660 Trade Hill Rd., Seabrook, GA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2004.
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.
In 1958, Georgia became the first state to lower the voting age from 21 to 18, although this was later overturned by the Supreme Court.
In the nineteenth century, Liberty County's economy thrived due to its agriculture, with rice and cotton being the primary crops. The county's location along the coastal region allowed it to participate in international trade, leading to the growth of prosperous plantations. However, the county also faced the dark stain of slavery, as enslaved Africans toiled on these plantations, enduring immense hardships and contributing to the county's economic success.
The Civil War brought significant changes to Liberty County. As Union forces advanced into the South, many enslaved individuals seized the opportunity to escape to freedom. The county's economy was severely impacted by the abolition of slavery, leaving many plantation owners struggling to adapt. After the war, a period of Reconstruction followed, with Liberty County gradually rebuilding and recovering from the devastation of conflict.
In the twentieth century, Liberty County experienced further growth and change. The county became a hub for military activity with the establishment of Fort Stewart in 1940, which played a crucial role in training soldiers during World War II and continues to be an important military installation today. The county's economy diversified, with the growth of industries such as lumber, paper production, and tourism. Today, Liberty County retains its historical significance, with numerous historic sites and monuments that showcase its pivotal role in the founding and development of Georgia and the United States.
Liberty County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Liberty County, Georgia.
- Pre-1732: Liberty County is occupied by Native American tribes, including the Yuchi and Creek.
- 1732: The area is included in the British colony of Georgia following the granting of a charter to James Oglethorpe.
- 1752: The Parish of St. John is established in the area that will later become Liberty County.
- 1777: Liberty County is officially established as a county of the state of Georgia.
- 1793: Riceboro, the county's first settlement, is established.
- 1818: Hinesville is established as the county seat.
- 1833: Midway Museum is built, showcasing the area's history and culture.
- 1850s: Liberty County flourishes with the success of the rice and cotton industries.
- 1865: The Civil War comes to an end, with Liberty County having been occupied by Union forces for most of the conflict.
- 1906: The Liberty County Courthouse is constructed in Hinesville.
- 1940s: The establishment of Fort Stewart brings significant economic and population growth to the county.
- 1983: The Liberty County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the county's history.
- 2005: The Historic Dorchester Academy is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.