National Register Listing

Pierce County Courthouse

Main St., Blackshear, 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 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.
Georgia random facts
Pierce County, Georgia has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee. European settlers began to arrive in the 18th century, establishing small towns and plantations.

In 1857, Pierce County was officially created and named after President Franklin Pierce. The county quickly became an important center of agriculture, with cotton being the primary cash crop. The county's economy grew alongside the expansion of railroads, which made it easier to transport goods to market.

During the Civil War, Pierce County was deeply divided, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others remaining loyal to the Union. The county suffered significant damage and economic hardships during this time, but it gradually recovered in the years following the war.

Throughout the 20th century, Pierce County experienced growth and development in various sectors. Tobacco became an important crop alongside cotton, and industries such as timber and manufacturing also emerged. Today, Pierce County continues to evolve, with a focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and services contributing to its economy. Historic sites and landmarks, along with a strong sense of community, remind residents of the county's rich history.

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

  • 1818: Pierce County established as a land lot district
  • 1820: First settlers arrive in the area
  • 1822: Pierce County officially created from Ware County
  • 1837: County named in honor of Franklin Pierce, a U.S. senator and future president
  • 1850: Population increases due to the expansion of timber and turpentine industries
  • 1860-1865: County affected by the American Civil War
  • 1870s: Railroad construction leads to further economic growth
  • 1899: The county seat moved from Spring Hill to Blackshear
  • 1920s-1930s: County suffers from the Great Depression
  • 1942-1945: U.S. Army opens Camp Wheeler in Pierce County as a training site during World War II
  • 1950s-present: Agriculture and manufacturing become important industries in the county