Monticello High School

a.k.a. Old Elementary School

College St., Monticello, GA
Local significance of the building:
Education; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

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 first gold rush in America happened in Georgia in 1828, when gold was discovered in the northwestern part of the state. This discovery led to the creation of the Dahlonega Mint, which produced gold coins until the outbreak of the Civil War.
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.