Madison County Courthouse

Courthouse Sq., Danielsville, GA
Local significance of the building:
Economics; Law; Politics/government; Architecture; Communications

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.

In 1958, Georgia became the first state to lower the voting age from 21 to 18, although this was later overturned by the Supreme Court.
Madison County, located in the northeastern part of Georgia, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee. These tribes left behind a legacy of ancient mounds and artifacts, providing evidence of their presence in the region.

European settlers arrived in the area in the late 18th century, seeking fertile land for farming. The county was officially established in 1811 and named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. At that time, the economy of Madison County was primarily agricultural, with cotton being the main crop. The county thrived as farmers utilized the fertile soil and favorable climate to cultivate their crops.

During the Civil War, Madison County played a significant role. As with many places in the South, the county experienced its fair share of turmoil and devastation. The Battle of Comer's Hill took place in May 1864, resulting in numerous casualties. Additionally, the county saw the forced conscription of its men into the Confederate Army, leaving an impact on the community for years to come.

In the years following the war, Madison County gradually transitioned from an agricultural economy to a more diversified one. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century brought new opportunities for trade and commerce. The county's economy expanded to include industries such as textiles, timber, and manufacturing. Today, Madison County continues to grow, with a blend of rural landscapes, small towns, and a thriving agricultural sector that remains an essential part of its identity.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Madison County, Georgia.

  • 1801: Madison County is established as one of the original counties in the state of Georgia.
  • 1810s: The county experiences rapid growth with the establishment of new towns and an increase in population.
  • 1820s: Madison County becomes an important center for agriculture, with cotton being the primary crop.
  • 1834: Danielsville is established as the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Madison County, like the rest of the state, is heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
  • 1870s-1880s: The county experiences a boom in the timber industry, leading to economic growth.
  • 20th century: Madison County sees shifts in its economy, with a decline in agriculture and the rise of manufacturing and services.
  • 1980s-present: The county continues to evolve, with a focus on preserving its historical heritage while embracing modern development.