Peach County, Georgia

Located in the heart of Georgia, Peach County has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and Cherokee, who utilized the land's fertile soil for farming. European settlers began to arrive in the early 19th century, drawn by the region's natural resources and agricultural potential.

Peach County was officially created on July 18, 1924, and was named after the peach orchards that thrived in the area. The county was carved out of parts of Macon and Houston counties, with Fort Valley serving as the county seat. Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of peaches, quickly became the backbone of Peach County's economy.

During the mid-20th century, Peach County experienced significant growth and development. The creation of the Robins Air Force Base in neighboring Houston County brought an influx of military personnel and civilian workers to the area, stimulating economic growth and diversification. Additionally, the establishment of the Georgia Peach Festival in 1987 further put Peach County on the map, attracting visitors from all over the state and beyond.

In recent years, Peach County has continued to thrive as a hub for agriculture, tourism, and small businesses. The county remains renowned for its peach production, with numerous farms and orchards attracting visitors during the annual peach season. Moreover, Peach County's central location and access to major highways have made it an attractive location for various industries, contributing to its ongoing economic prosperity. Through its rich history and vibrant present, Peach County continues to be a place of significance and opportunity in the state of Georgia.
Brief timeline of the history of Peach County, Georgia:

  • 1924: Peach County was established on July 8th as the 161st county in Georgia.
  • 1925: The first courthouse in Peach County was constructed in Fort Valley.
  • 1927: The Bibb County Training School was relocated to Fort Valley and renamed Peach County High School.
  • 1937: The Peach County Airport was established as a Civil Aeronautics Authority project.
  • 1950s: Fort Valley State College (now Fort Valley State University) was established.
  • 1970: Peach County's population reached over 12,000.
  • 1980: The Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter was founded in Perry.
  • 1997: The Andersonville National Historic Site and the National Prisoner of War Museum opened to the public.
  • 2007: Peach County High School's football team won the state championship for the first time.
  • 2018: The population of Peach County exceeded 27,000.

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

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