Long County

Historical marker location:
Ludowici, Georgia
( Marker is on MacDonald Street.)
Marker installed: 1954

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Georgia played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, with many key events taking place in the state. The Albany Movement, the March on Washington, and the Selma to Montgomery March all had ties to Georgia.
Long County, located in southeast Georgia, has a rich history that dates back to Native American settlements. The area was originally inhabited by the Creek and Cherokee tribes before European settlers arrived in the 18th century. The county was officially established in 1920, primarily as a result of the expansion of the timber industry in the region.

During the American Civil War, Long County, along with the rest of Georgia, became a battleground. A significant engagement, known as the Battle of Sutherland's Station, took place in 1864 near its southern border. This battle was part of General Sherman's March to the Sea, during which Union forces aimed to destroy the Confederacy's infrastructure.

After the war, Long County saw gradual development. The timber industry played a crucial role in the county's growth, attracting settlers and facilitating economic prosperity. With an abundance of timber resources, the county became a major center for logging and sawmill operations. Agriculture, particularly the production of naval stores, such as turpentine and resin, also became important to the local economy.

In recent decades, Long County has seen a shift in its economic focus. While the timber industry remains significant, the county has also experienced growth in other sectors such as manufacturing and service industries. Today, Long County continues to evolve and adapt to changing times while still cherishing its storied past and natural beauty.

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

  • 1836 - Long County is created from parts of Liberty County and named after Dr. Crawford Williamson Long, a pioneer in surgical anesthesia.
  • 1861-1865 - Long County, like many other areas in Georgia, is heavily affected by the American Civil War.
  • Early 1900s - Agriculture, primarily centered around tobacco and lumber, becomes the backbone of the county's economy.
  • 1940s-1950s - Long County experiences significant population growth, largely due to the establishment of the nearby Fort Stewart military reservation.
  • 1965 - The Long County Board of Education is established and the first public school is built.
  • 1980s - Long County's economy shifts from agriculture to more diverse industries, including manufacturing and services.
  • 1993 - The Long County Board of Commissioners is formed, signaling a shift towards greater local governance.
  • 2010 - The population of Long County reaches over 14,500, nearly double the population in 2000.
  • 2016 - The Long County Recreation Department opens a new complex, providing increased recreational opportunities for residents.