Historical Marker

Ball's Ferry

Historical marker location:
Oconee, Georgia
( Marker is at the intersection of Georgia Route 57 and Unnamed private road leading S from GA Hwy 57 when traveling west on State Route 57.)
Marker installed: 1958

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.