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Georgia was the site of the first American gold rush, but it was also the site of the first American oil rush. In 1905, oil was discovered in Bibb County, and the state's oil industry began to grow rapidly.
About Henry County
Henry County Timeline
Henry County, Georgia has a rich history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Creek Indians, who lived off the land and engaged in trade with European settlers. The county was officially established on May 15, 1821, named after Patrick Henry, a prominent figure in the American Revolutionary War.
During the early years, Henry County was primarily an agricultural region, with cotton being the main cash crop. The emergence of the railroad in the mid-19th century brought economic growth and spurred industrial development. The county witnessed significant population growth as people migrated from rural areas to take advantage of new opportunities.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henry County faced challenges such as the Great Depression and the decline of the cotton industry. However, it managed to bounce back with the emergence of poultry farming, which became a major industry in the region. Henry County became known as the "Poultry Capital of the World," with numerous poultry processing plants and farms dotting the landscape.
In recent years, the county has experienced rapid urbanization and suburbanization as Atlanta's metropolitan area expands. The population has grown significantly, leading to the development of new residential communities, shopping centers, and amenities. Today, Henry County remains a vibrant and diverse community, offering a blend of rural charm and modern conveniences for its residents.
During the early years, Henry County was primarily an agricultural region, with cotton being the main cash crop. The emergence of the railroad in the mid-19th century brought economic growth and spurred industrial development. The county witnessed significant population growth as people migrated from rural areas to take advantage of new opportunities.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henry County faced challenges such as the Great Depression and the decline of the cotton industry. However, it managed to bounce back with the emergence of poultry farming, which became a major industry in the region. Henry County became known as the "Poultry Capital of the World," with numerous poultry processing plants and farms dotting the landscape.
In recent years, the county has experienced rapid urbanization and suburbanization as Atlanta's metropolitan area expands. The population has grown significantly, leading to the development of new residential communities, shopping centers, and amenities. Today, Henry County remains a vibrant and diverse community, offering a blend of rural charm and modern conveniences for its residents.
Henry County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Henry County, Georgia.
- 1821 - Henry County is established on December 24.
- 1823 - McDonough is established as the county seat.
- 1825 - The Atlanta and LaGrange Railroad is completed through Henry County.
- 1861-1865 - Henry County residents serve in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
- 1900 - The population of Henry County is 12,434.
- 1936 - Atlanta Speedway, later renamed Atlanta Motor Speedway, is built in Henry County.
- 1964 - The first Atlanta International Pop Festival takes place in Henry County.
- 1974 - The opening of the Henry County Airport (now known as Atlanta South Regional Airport).
- 1990 - The population of Henry County reaches 89,556.
- 1994 - Henry County schools become the first in Georgia to implement the year-round school system.
- 2000 - The population of Henry County surpasses 119,000.
- 2019 - Henry County celebrates its bicentennial.