Bacon County Courthouse
Main St., Alma, GA Local significance of the building: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.
The state of Georgia has produced many notable musicians, including Ray Charles, James Brown, Otis Redding, and the Allman Brothers Band.
In the late 1800s, Bacon County became a bustling center for the timber industry. Lumber mills were established along the Satilla River, providing a vital source of employment and economic growth. The production and transportation of timber played a crucial role in shaping the county's early economy and attracting settlers.
The county was officially created on July 27, 1914, carving out a portion of neighboring Appling County. It was named after Augustus Bacon, a prominent U.S. Senator from Georgia. The early years of Bacon County were marked by agricultural success, as farmers took advantage of the fertile land to cultivate crops such as cotton, vegetables, and tobacco.
Throughout the decades, Bacon County faced its share of challenges and triumphs. It experienced the impact of the Great Depression in the 1930s, which resulted in widespread poverty and hardship. However, the county rebounded in the post-war era, diversifying its economy with the introduction of new industries. Today, Bacon County continues to be an important agricultural and manufacturing hub in southern Georgia, contributing to the growth and development of the state.
Bacon County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Bacon County, Georgia.
- 1914: Bacon County is established as a county in Georgia.
- Early 1900s: The County experiences significant growth due to the expanding timber industry.
- 1918: The county seat is established in Alma.
- Late 1920s: Bacon County suffers from the economic effects of the Great Depression.
- 1930s-1940s: The county's agricultural sector thrives with the production of peanuts, pecans, and timber.
- 1945: The Bacon County Courthouse is built.
- 1970s: The county experiences a decline in population due to young people leaving in search of job opportunities.
- 1989: A tornado causes significant damage to areas within Bacon County.
- 2000s: The county focuses on diversifying its economy, particularly through tourism and the development of small businesses.
- Present: Bacon County continues to be a predominantly rural and agricultural area, known for its friendly community and scenic landscapes.