Providence Baptist Church

Historical marker location:
Shady Dale, Georgia
( Marker is at the intersection of Railroad Street and Machen Street, on the left when traveling south on Railroad Street.)
Marker installed: 1957

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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.
Jasper County, Georgia, has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area was settled by European-American pioneers in the early 1800s. The county was named after Sergeant William Jasper, a Revolutionary War hero, and was officially established in 1807.

During the antebellum period, Jasper County flourished economically, with cotton production becoming a major industry. Plantations were established, and enslaved African Americans were forced to work on these plantations. However, the Civil War brought significant changes to the area, as many plantations were destroyed or abandoned.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Jasper County faced challenges in recovering from the war. The economy shifted from agriculture to manufacturing, with textile mills and woodworking factories becoming prominent. The railroad also played a crucial role in the county's growth, connecting it to larger cities and facilitating trade.

Throughout the 20th century, Jasper County experienced both highs and lows. The Great Depression and World War II had a significant impact, but the county eventually rebounded. Today, Jasper County is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic homes, and thriving agricultural industries, including poultry farming and timber production. The county continues to honor its history while embracing modern development and sustainable practices for its residents.

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

  • 1811 - Jasper County is created from Baldwin County.
  • 1812 - Monticello becomes the county seat.
  • Late 1800s - Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, becomes the primary industry.
  • 1900s - The county experiences a decline in population due to agricultural mechanization and the boll weevil infestation.
  • 1940s - The construction of Lake Jackson brings an economic boost to the county.
  • 1970s - The county experiences continued population growth, mainly due to suburban development.
  • 1990s - The population exceeds 10,000 people for the first time.