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The state of Georgia was home to the first American-born saint, Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, who founded the Sacred Heart Orphanage in Savannah in 1900.
About Chatham County
Chatham County Timeline
Chatham County, Georgia has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1777. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Yamacraws and the Creek Nation, who relied on the fertile land and abundant natural resources for their livelihoods. In 1733, General James Oglethorpe established the colony of Georgia and founded the city of Savannah, which would eventually become the county seat of Chatham County.
During the American Revolution, Chatham County played a significant role in the fight for independence, with the Battle of Savannah being a major conflict. British forces occupied the area, but were ultimately repelled by the American Revolutionary forces. The county continued to grow and develop in the following decades, becoming a major center of trade and commerce in the region due to its strategic location and access to the Savannah River.
In the 19th century, Chatham County saw a boom in industrial development, particularly in the fields of cotton production and shipping. Plantations were established, and slavery became a crucial part of the county's economy. The county also experienced the impact of the Civil War, with Union forces capturing Savannah in 1864 and effectively ending Confederate control in the region.
In the 20th century, Chatham County continued to evolve with significant advancements in infrastructure and technology. The establishment of Fort Stewart in the early 1940s brought a military presence to the county, which further stimulated economic growth. Today, Chatham County is a diverse and thriving area known for its historic charm, vibrant culture, and its contributions to Georgia's economy as a leading tourist destination and major transportation hub.
During the American Revolution, Chatham County played a significant role in the fight for independence, with the Battle of Savannah being a major conflict. British forces occupied the area, but were ultimately repelled by the American Revolutionary forces. The county continued to grow and develop in the following decades, becoming a major center of trade and commerce in the region due to its strategic location and access to the Savannah River.
In the 19th century, Chatham County saw a boom in industrial development, particularly in the fields of cotton production and shipping. Plantations were established, and slavery became a crucial part of the county's economy. The county also experienced the impact of the Civil War, with Union forces capturing Savannah in 1864 and effectively ending Confederate control in the region.
In the 20th century, Chatham County continued to evolve with significant advancements in infrastructure and technology. The establishment of Fort Stewart in the early 1940s brought a military presence to the county, which further stimulated economic growth. Today, Chatham County is a diverse and thriving area known for its historic charm, vibrant culture, and its contributions to Georgia's economy as a leading tourist destination and major transportation hub.
Chatham County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Chatham County, Georgia.
- 1732: Chatham County is established as one of the original counties of the Province of Georgia.
- 1758: Savannah, the largest city in the county, is incorporated.
- 1779: During the American Revolutionary War, British forces capture Savannah.
- 1790: Chatham County's population reaches over 8,000.
- 1820: The First African Baptist Church is established in Savannah, becoming one of the first African-American churches in North America.
- 1850: Chatham County's population grows to over 20,000.
- 1864: Union forces capture Savannah during the American Civil War's "March to the Sea."
- 1909: The Georgia State Railroad Museum opens in Savannah.
- 1966: Chatham County becomes the first county in Georgia to adopt a consolidated city-county government system.
- 1996: The Savannah College of Art and Design Museum of Art opens, becoming the largest university art museum in the country.
- 2005: Hurricane Katrina causes significant damage to the county's coastal areas.