Meriwether County, Georgia

Meriwether County, located in west-central Georgia, has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1827. The county was named after David Meriwether, a renowned lawyer and politician from the state. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee, who were forcefully displaced in the early 19th century with the acquisition of their lands by European settlers.

The county played a significant role during the Civil War. Despite being initially considered a Unionist stronghold, Meriwether County eventually voted to secede from the Union and join the Confederacy. The county saw several skirmishes and battles, such as the Battle of Brown's Mill in 1864, which resulted in a Confederate victory and delayed Union General Sherman's advance toward Atlanta.

Following the war, Meriwether County experienced a period of reconstruction and economic recovery. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, became the mainstay of the local economy, and the county saw an influx of freed African Americans who worked as sharecroppers. The county also saw the establishment of several textile mills in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which provided employment opportunities and spurred industrial growth.

The 20th century brought further changes and developments to Meriwether County. However, like other rural areas in the United States, the county experienced a decline in agriculture, which led to a shift towards a more diversified economy. Today, Meriwether County continues to preserve its historical sites and small-town charm while embracing new opportunities for growth and community development.
Brief timeline of the history of Meriwether County, Georgia:

  • 1827 - Meriwether County is established on December 14.
  • 1830 - The town of Greenville is chosen as the county seat.
  • 1836 - The first courthouse is built in Greenville.
  • 1864 - During the Civil War, Union General Edward M. McCook's raiders burn the courthouse and several homes in Greenville.
  • 1865 - The Civil War ends, and the county begins to rebuild.
  • 1908 - The square in Greenville is electrified with streetlights.
  • 1926 - The Harris-Congress Memorial Library is established in Greenville.
  • 1939 - Roosevelt State Park is opened as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal program.
  • 1980 - Meriwether County is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2005 - The county experiences significant damage from Hurricane Katrina.
  • 2019 - The population of Meriwether County is estimated to be around 21,000.

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