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Sopchoppy, Florida

Sopchoppy is a city in Wakulla County, Florida, United States. The City of Sopchoppy is located on the Florida Panhandle in North Florida, with Ochlockonee River State Park located nearby. It is part of the Tallahassee, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 426 at the 2020 census, down from 457 at the 2010 census.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the City of Sopchoppy is located at 30.06°N, -84.49111°W (30.059994, –84.491084).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.5 square miles (3.9 km$2$.), all land.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Sopchoppy has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

History
The city's name is a corruption of "Lockchoppe", derived from the Muskogee lokchapi ("lokcha" meaning "acorn", and "api" meaning "stem"), which was the old name of the nearby river.

Mention of Sopchoppy can be found in 1850, in a runaway slave ad published by Henry Mash in the May 7, 1850 Florida Sentinel newspaper of Tallahassee. This is nearly 50 years earlier than the 1894 claim noted below.

Sopchoppy came into existence in 1894 after the CT&G Railroad Company built a railway through the area. It platted the city on property it already owned in the area, across the river from Greenough. To encourage people to settle the area, the railroad engaged in an advertising campaign, exaggerating the quality of the soil and climate.

The Sopchoppy Depot was built in 1891. Now a museum, it was built for the Carrabelle, Tallahassee & Georgia Railroad (G. F. & A.), and referred to colloquially as the "Gopher, Frog & Alligator, Company", which was absorbed by the Georgia, Florida and Alabama Railroad. The line began in 1893 and closed in 1946. It transported lumber, turpentine and related products, honey, farm produce, soldiers, fish and oysters packed in barrels in ice as well as sturgeon caviar from the Sopchoppy River, frog legs, and catfish.

Although Sopchoppy has existed as a settlement since at least 1894, the city was officially incorporated as a municipality in 1955.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 426 people, 220 households, and 119 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 457 people, 165 households, and 110 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the 2000 census, there were 426 people, 178 households, and 111 families residing in the city. The population density was 280.4 PD/sqmi. There were 216 housing units at an average density of 142.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 78.40% White, 18.08% African American, 1.17% Native American, 0.70% Asian, 1.17% from other races, and 0.47% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.99% of the population.

In 2000, there were 178 households, out of which 32.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.8% were married couples living together, 15.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.6% were non-families. 32.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 3.09.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 26.8% under the age of 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 22.5% from 45 to 64, and 13.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.3 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $29,583, and the median income for a family was $33,750. Males had a median income of $30,833 versus $17,188 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,165. About 14.4% of families and 17.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.9% of those under age 18 and 48.2% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * B. K. Roberts, Florida Supreme Court Justice, was born in Sopchoppy

Festivals
The city is home to the annual American Worm Gruntin' Festival, a city celebration named in honor of a worm grunting—also known as worm charming—a method for driving worms to the surface of the earth. Worm charmers hammer wooden stakes into the ground, then rub them with metal slabs. The resulting vibrations cause worms to surface, whereupon they are typically gathered and used or sold for fishing bait.

Part of Tim Dorsey's 2017 novel Clownfish Blues is set in Sopchoppy and worm grunting is a plot element.

title: Sopchoppy, Florida


text:
St. Marks, Florida

St. Marks is a city in Wakulla County, Florida, United States. It is part of the Tallahassee, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. St. Marks is located on the Florida Panhandle in North Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico. The population at the 2020 census was 274, down from 293 at the 2010 census.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the City of St. Marks is located at 30.15924°N, -84.20715°W.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.9 sqmi, of which 1.9 sqmi is land and 0.52% is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, St. Marks has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

History
Originally known as San Marcos de Apalache and centered on a Spanish fort, this town was founded by the Spanish in the 17th century in what was then Spanish Florida. There was a trading post of Panton, Leslie & Company in the late 18th century. A long time has passed since St. Marks last had appreciable importance, but this place on Apalachee Bay in Florida's Big Bend is a very old and historic Gulf port. Fortifications built here by the Spanish in the 17th century, and rebuilt several times, provided the venue for force of arms repeatedly up through the American Civil War.

In the best-known incident, Andrew Jackson, in his incursion into Spanish Florida in 1818, executed British nationals Robert Chrystie Ambrister and Alexander George Arbuthnot at the old fort, as well as the Muscogee ("Creek") religious leader called Francis the Prophet. This nearly embroiled the United States in international strife. San Marcos de Apalache Historic State Park interprets the site of the old fort.

Today's St. Marks evidently has its roots in American commercial activity that took hold beneath the walls of the fort upon acquisition of Spanish Florida by the U.S. in 1821—before the settlement moved slightly up the St. Marks River to the present position. Various articles in publications like Florida Historical Quarterly relate how the fort site later held a government "naval" hospital to meet yellow fever emergencies in the merchant marine. And just afterward Confederate batteries were established on the site in the Civil War. Their earthworks remain and are interpreted in the historic state park. But the site also exhibits old Spanish stonework, and not far away (though inaccessible), just down St. Marks River are shallow Spanish quarries where this limestone was evidently obtained in the 1730s.

Limestone quarried here by the Spanish helped to make the St. Marks Light lighthouse, constructed about 1830 by the U.S. government. The lighthouse stands, after a couple of reconstructions, at the mouth of the river six miles from town and accessible by road. The lighthouse is, like San Marcos de Apalache, on the National Register of Historic Places.

St. Marks was a seaport for all of Middle Florida and lower Georgia during this early period. Ellen Call Long, on her way to Tallahassee, described the port about 1830 as "a quaint little village, amphibious-like, consisting of a few dwelling houses, stores, etc., mostly built on stilts or piles, as if ready to launch when wind or tide prevailed."

A railroad often cited as Florida's first connected the port of St. Marks with the territorial capital, Tallahassee, some 20 miles inland. The line, the Tallahassee Railroad, was constructed about 1836, and until the Civil War it served in the export of Middle Florida's cotton through St. Marks.

The capacity of the St. Marks port was limited, and it was surpassed in the 19th century by the larger port of Apalachicola, served by the Thomasville, Tallahassee and Gulf Railroad via Carrabelle, Florida.

The City of St. Marks was officially incorporated as a municipality in 1963.

The now-abandoned rail line serves as Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail, a paved 16 mile bicycle and equestrian trail terminating at the St. Marks waterfront.

On July 10, 2005, the section of the coast was damaged by the big storm surge associated with Hurricane Dennis, severely flooded the town, causing major damage to local businesses and homes. As on other occasions in its history, St. Marks was flooded badly with saltwater.

Demographics
St. Marks first appeared in the 1850 U.S. census with a total population of 189.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 274 people, 167 households, and 140 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 293 people, 124 households, and 66 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 272 people, 137 households, and 79 families residing in the city. The population density was 141.0 PD/sqmi. There were 168 housing units at an average density of 87.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.75% White, 2.57% African American, 0.74% Native American, 0.37% Asian, 1.10% from other races, and 1.47% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.37% of the population.

In 2000, there were 137 households, out of which 16.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.1% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.3% were non-families. 36.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.99 and the average family size was 2.56.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 15.8% under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 31.6% from 45 to 64, and 17.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 110.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $25,156, and the median income for a family was $36,250. Males had a median income of $25,234 versus $21,458 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,994. About 19.1% of families and 19.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.3% of those under the age of eighteen and 6.7% of those 65 or over.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: St. Marks, Florida


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DeFuniak Springs, Florida

DeFuniak Springs is a city in and the county seat of Walton County, Florida, United States. The population was 5,919 as of the 2020 Census, up from 5,177 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Crestview—Fort Walton Beach—Destin, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. DeFuniak Springs also serves as a hub for many residents in surrounding communities.

DeFuniak Springs is home to Lake DeFuniak, one of two spring-fed lakes in the world that is nearly perfectly round.

History
The town was founded during the late 19th century as a resort development by the officers of the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad, a subsidiary of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. The P&A was organized to connect the terminus of the L&N at Pensacola to the western terminus of a predecessor of the Seaboard Air Line Railroad at River Junction—now Chattahoochee—in the 1880s. The town was named after Frederick R. De Funiak, a vice-president of the L&N. Like much of Northwest Florida, DeFuniak Springs was settled mainly by Scots from Virginia and the Carolinas.

DeFuniak Springs was established as a final-destination resort. The developers enlisted the cooperation and aid of the Chautauqua Movement. The Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood, an auditorium seating 4,000, was constructed on Lake DeFuniak in the center of town. Seminars, classes, and the like were held in the Hall of Brotherhood building for people on vacation.

The auditorium of the building was severely damaged by Hurricane Eloise in 1975 and razed. In 2003, the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood Foundation, Inc., a charitable foundation, started a capital campaign to restore the historic building. The westerly portion of the building facing Circle Drive was still in use at that time.

As part of the intellectual atmosphere of the town, a college and a private high school (named Palmer College and Palmer Academy, respectively), as well as a technical school (Thomas Industrial Institute) and a teacher training school (Florida Normal College) were established in the late 19th century. Florida Normal College was later incorporated into Florida State University. The other schools closed during the Great Depression, which created financial strains. There remains a College Avenue that once led to Palmer College.

In 1886, the town held an important meeting that changed the course of public education in Florida. At this meeting, teachers from around the state formed the Florida Education Association. This teachers' union remains the state's predominant voice for educators and is affiliated with the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers.

The town contains other historically significant landmarks. The Walton County Library is located on Circle Drive, the oldest extant library in the state of Florida. The library contains antiquities, including an impressive medieval weapon collection, in addition to many first-edition books. Also situated on Circle Drive are the Walton County Heritage Museum, housed in the former L&N railroad depot, and St. Agatha's Episcopal Church, built in 1895–1896. First Presbyterian Church is the only private structure in the Lake Yard, the park surrounding the lake. Although Walton County was opposed to secession, the first monument to the Confederate war dead constructed in Florida is located on the lawn of the Walton County Courthouse.

A chicken processing plant operated by Perdue Farms at DeFuniak Springs was closed in April 2004.

Traditions
The surrounding landscape of Lake DeFuniak is decorated for the holidays between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day to celebrate the holiday season. This is known to locals as the "Christmas Reflections".

Geography
DeFuniak Springs is located at 30°43'N 86°7'W (30.721, –86.119).

The city is located in the Florida Panhandle along Interstate 10 and U.S. Routes 90 and 331. I-10 runs south of the city from west to east, providing access from exit 85 (U.S. Route 331). I-10 leads east 119 mi to Tallahassee, the state capital, and west 80 mi to Pensacola. U.S. Route 90 runs through the city from west to east as Nelson Avenue, and leads east 12 mi to Ponce de Leon and west 29 mi to Crestview. U.S. Route 331 is the main north–south route in the city and its main connection to the Gulf coast. U.S. 331 leads northwest 25 mi to Florala, Alabama, and south 26 mi to U.S. Route 98 near Santa Rosa Beach. Florida State Road 83 also runs through the city as well, leading south to Santa Rosa Beach (with U.S. 331) and north 19 mi to the Florida-Alabama state line.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 11.2 sqmi, of which 11.0 sqmi is land, and 0.3 sqmi (2.49%) is water.

Climate
DeFuniak Springs has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) with abundant precipitation, particularly during the summer months, due to its location on the Gulf Coast and consequent vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes.

Public schools
Public schools in Defuniak Springs are run by the Walton County School District.

 * Walton High School
 * Walton Middle School
 * Maude Saunders Elementary School
 * Mossy Head Elementary School
 * West DeFuniak Elementary School
 * Walton Academy

Private schools

 * First Christian Academy

Library
At the time of planning, the founders of DeFuniak Springs were interested in the adult education movement. For DeFuniak Springs, this movement did not only include the Chautauqua center, McCormick University and Academy, and the State Normal School, but also a community library.

In 1887, a group of women formed the Ladies Library Association, and their goal was to establish a library that would become the "little sister" to the Chautauqua center, university, and school. The Ladies Library Association chose a plot of land adjacent to the Chautauqua center and signed a lease for ninety-nine years. By the end of 1887, five years after the initial plan of the village, there was a community library; the Ladies Library Association's main goal of establishing a social library was complete. Initially, the library relied on book donations, but also purchased books from the Ladies Reading Club and a private book owner, J. L. Shearer. The Ladies Library Association persisted and was able to maintain the library, books, and maintenance of the library for quite some time. However, by 1923, the Ladies Library Association was unable to continue to sustain the library and requested city funds, which the city took on gradually. It was not until the 1960s when the subscription fees were finally eliminated, and the county and city assumed total responsibility for its maintenance and collection development. Today, the Walton-DeFuniak Library remains in use just as it did when it opened in 1887.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 5,919 people, 2,848 households, and 1,789 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 5,177 people, 2,306 households, and 1,287 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 5,089 people, 2,105 households, and 1,324 families residing in the city. The population density was 464.0 PD/sqmi. There were 2,464 housing units at an average density of 224.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 71.78% White, 22.99% African American, 1.00% Native American, 0.51% Asian, 0.08% Pacific Islander, 1.81% from other races, and 1.83% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.30% of the population.

In 2000, there were 2,105 households, out of which 27.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.7% were married couples living together, 18.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.1% were non-families. 33.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.30, and the average family size was 2.91.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 23.6% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 24.4% from 25 to 44, 22.2% from 45 to 64, and 21.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 78.7 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $24,516, and the median income for a family was $28,750. Males had a median income of $24,219 versus $19,255 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,298. About 18.2% of families and 18.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.6% of those under age 18 and 9.3% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Buck Showalter, (b 1956) professional baseball manager.
 * Kyrsten Sinema, (b 1976) politician serving as the senior United States senator from Arizona.
 * Jerry Shriver, U.S. Army Special Forces soldier.
 * Wankard Pooser, Florida politician

title: DeFuniak Springs, Florida


text:
Freeport, Florida

Freeport is a city in Walton County, Florida, United States. It is part of the Crestview–Fort Walton Beach–Destin, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020, the population recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau was 5,861, up from 1,787 at the 2010 census. Freeport is one of the fastest growing cities in Florida. After the construction of the massive group of neighborhoods, Hammock Bay, the population grew by about 2 thousand.

History
Freeport is said to have been established circa 1830. It was called Freeport due to an absence of fees to use the dock ('free port') at the junction of Four Mile Creek and Lafayette Creek.

Historically, the economy of Freeport was largely dependent on the local timber industry through sawmills and logging, as well as the processing of turpentine.

After the introduction of the railroad in Defuniak Springs, Freeport lost its position as the economic powerhouse in Walton County. Today it has a sizeable population of people who serve at Eglin AFB.

Geography
Freeport is located at 30.50243°N, -86.13025°W. The city is located along U.S. Route 331 and Florida State Road 20. U.S. 331 runs from north to south to the east of the city, leading north 17 mi to DeFuniak Springs, the Walton County seat, and south 11 mi to U.S. Route 98 near Santa Rosa Beach. FL-20 runs from west to east through the main part of the city, leading east 17 mi to Ebro and west 24 mi to Niceville.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 28.0 km2, of which 10.8 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi (0.28%) is water.

Freeport is situated at the junction of Four Mile Creek and Lafayette Creek, which empty out into LaGrange Bayou, which is connected to the Choctawhatchee Bay.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 5,861 people, 959 households, and 760 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 1,787 people, 636 households, and 343 families residing in the city.

In 2010, the population density was 110.4 PD/sqmi. There were 563 housing units at an average density of 52.2 /sqmi.

2000 Census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,190 people, 500 households, and 327 families living in the city. The population density was 110.4 PD/sqmi. There were 563 housing units at an average density of 52.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 92.77% White, 2.35% African American, 2.18% Native American, 0.08% Asian, 0.17% Pacific Islander, 0.17% from other races, and 2.27% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.09% of the population.

In 2000, there were 500 households, out of which 31.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.4% were married couples living together, 11.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.6% were non-families. 28.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.90.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 26.0% under the age of 18, 8.7% from 18 to 24, 27.5% from 25 to 44, 23.9% from 45 to 64, and 13.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.4 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $25,735, and the median income for a family was $33,214. Males had a median income of $31,375 versus $19,219 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,114. About 18.0% of families and 21.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.0% of those under age 18 and 23.2% of those age 65 or over.

Schools

 * Freeport Elementary School
 * Freeport Middle School
 * Freeport High School

title: Freeport, Florida


text:
Miramar Beach, Florida

Miramar Beach is a census-designated place (CDP) in Walton County, Florida, United States. The population was 8,002 at the 2020 census, up from 6,146 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Crestview—Fort Walton Beach–Destin, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. Although many other coastal localities in Florida have appended "Beach" to their names to distinguish themselves from an adjacent inland or cross-bay municipality – such as Miami Beach, St. Pete Beach, Fort Myers Beach, Panama City Beach, Melbourne Beach, Cocoa Beach, and Jacksonville Beach – the city of Miramar, Florida is actually over 450 mi away in South Florida. Miramar Beach is due east of Destin, Florida. It is often considered to be part of the city of Destin. However, it has its own ZIP code (32550) and is in Walton County, whereas Destin is in Okaloosa County.

Geography
Miramar Beach is located in the southwestern corner of Walton County at 30.38278°N, -86.35583°W (30.382698, -86.355962).

The CDP is located along the Gulf Coast. U.S. Route 98 is the main route through the CDP, and leads east 47 mi (76 km) to Panama City and west 9 mi (14 km) to Destin.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the total area of 4.7 sqmi, of which 4.6 sqmi is land and 0.1 sqmi (2.54%) is water.

Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Miramar Beach had a population of 8,002 people with 4,334 households. There were 2.06 persons per household. There was a population of 1,139.6 per square mile.

3.1% of the population were under 5 years old, 13.5% were under 18 years old, and 34.1% were 65 years or older. 89.0% of the population were white, 5.5% were black or African American, 0.4% were American Indian or Alaska Native, 0.5% were Asian, 4.4% were two or more races, and 6.0% were Hispanic or Latino. 52.0% were female and 11.4% of the population were foreign born persons.There were 875 veterans living in the city.

The median value of owner-occupied housing units was $434,300. The median selected monthly owner costs with a mortgage was $2,322 and $791 for owners without a mortgage. The median gross rent was $1,565. 98.8% of the households had a computer and 90.4% had a broadband internet subscription. The median household income was $75,347. The per capita income was $56,876. 5.4% of the population lived below the poverty threshold.

98.4% of the population 25 years and older had a highschool diploma. 53.6% of the population 25 years and older had a Bachelor’s degree or higher.

Notable residents

 * Ross Kenseth, former racing driver

title: Miramar Beach, Florida


text:
Paxton, Florida

Paxton is a town in Walton County, Florida, United States. Located near Britton Hill on the Alabama–Florida state line, it has the highest elevation of any in Florida. The Town of Paxton is located on the Florida Panhandle, and is part of the Crestview–Fort Walton Beach–Destin, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. The population was 556 as of the 2020 census, down from 644 at the 2010 census.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the Town of Paxton is located at 30.97861°N, -86.31167°W.

Paxton is on the state line with Alabama, being bordered by the town of Florala on the north.

The highest natural point in Florida, Britton Hill, is located close to the town limits.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 4.0 sqmi, of which 3.9 sqmi is land and 0.1 sqmi (1.76%) is water.

At an elevation of 318 feet (97 meters), Paxton is the highest incorporated municipality in Florida.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Paxton has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 556 people, 298 households, and 210 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 644 people, 295 households, and 183 families residing in the town.

2000 census
At the 2000 census there were 656 people, 263 households, and 185 families in the town. The population density was 167.9 PD/sqmi. There were 298 housing units at an average density of 76.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.05% White, 1.68% African American, 2.90% Native American, 0.15% from other races, and 1.22% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.68%.

Of the 263 households in 2000, 28.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.7% were married couples living together, 13.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.3% were non-families. 27.0% of households were one person and 12.9% were one person aged 65 or older. The average household size was 2.49 and the average family size was 2.96.

In 2000, the age distribution was 25.5% under the age of 18, 6.7% from 18 to 24, 25.2% from 25 to 44, 26.7% from 45 to 64, and 16.0% 65 or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.5 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $24,625, and the median family income was $35,000. Males had a median income of $25,781 versus $21,375 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,108. About 7.1% of families and 12.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.6% of those under age 18 and 12.1% of those age 65 or over.

title: Paxton, Florida


text:
Caryville, Florida

Caryville is a town in Washington County, Florida, United States located along the Choctawhatchee River. The Caryville is part of the Florida Panhandle in North Florida. The population was 301 at the 2020 census, down from 411 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Panama City—Panama City Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the Town of Caryville is located at 30.77556°N, -85.81056°W (30.775620, –85.810506).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 3.2 sqmi, of which 3.0 sqmi is land and 0.1 sqmi (4.13%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Caryville has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

History
During July 1994, the Choctawhatchee River flooded and rose to a record level of 29 feet. The flooding submerged most of Caryville under water. Due to the 'buyout' of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), many residents left. This departure left only about 200 residents in the town.

Caryville, in northwestern Washington County, owes its existence largely to the forestry products industries. An early sawmill town, Caryville's location was dictated by the presence of the Choctawhatchee River, which was crossed in Caryville by the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad in 1882 (Later to become L&N Railroad).

The most accepted matter of Caryville's name, and the one listed in Allen Morris, The Florida Handbook, is that the name came from R.M. Cary, who was secretary to the P. and A. Railroad Company. The area was originally called Half Moon Bluff. Some of the construction material for the new railroad was unloaded from steamships coming in from Pensacola at this location.

The railroad had hardly got started before some land sales were recorded in the vicinity. On February 24, 1882, Thomas Hannah of Point Washington sold several lots totaling 121 acres of Half Moon Bluff to Edwards, Brooks and Company of Opelika, Alabama. Two years later, after the place had been named Caryville, W. L. Whitlick of Pensacola was operating what may have been the first sawmill in the community.

Some logging operation may have been in progress before the coming of the railroad. The logs were consigned to the river, bearing the name and brand of Strickland and Wesley of Point Washington. The brand was a circle caw bearing 12 teeth. The logs were floated down stream to the mouth of the Choctawhatchee where they were caught up in a boom and towed to nearby sawmills.

Big scale timber operations began with the establishment of Sanford Lumber Company at Caryville well before the end of the 19th century. By 1903 that lumber company was furnishing employment for about 400 "hands" and had capacity of 100,000 board feet of lumber per day. Electricity came to Caryville in 1903.

The holdings of Sanford Lumber Company were acquired by Henderson-Waits Lumber Company in 1912. Corporation officers were Glover G. Waits, president, Fred Henderson, vice president and Barney M Henderson, secretary- treasurer; Directors were Pox Henderson, James C. Waits and J. D. Henderson, Jr.

By 1925, Henderson-Waits had acquired about 125,000 acres of land, including a large acreage, bought from Foshee Lumber Company, which had announced plans to build a sawmill at Chipley.

At the height of the milling operation, logs were hauled in by steam locomotive with train tracks laid as far south as Ebro for this purpose.

The Henderson-Waits holdings including the Caryville mill, were sold late in 1925 to Brown-Florida Lumber Company, a branch of the W.P. Brown Lumber Company. The sale price was reported to be $3 million.

Brown-Florida, after halting operations in the early 1930s, reopened on a half-capacity in 1933, employing about 300 men. A few years later, the holdings were reacquired by Henderson-Waits Lumber Company who soon suspended operations due to exhaustion of virgin timber in the area.

Caryville was first incorporated in 1913, the same year R. E. L. McCaskill's first addition to Caryville was platted and recorded as a subdivision. G G. Blake, the L & N Station agent was the town's first mayor and John A. Roberts was the first town marshal. H. E. Brooks was city clerk. Councilmen were Dr. L. H. Paul, W. C. Daniels, Pitt C. Miller, T. A. Gaskin and F. J. Moore. Streets in the McCaskill subdivision ran east and west with the avenues extending north and south.

Streets listed were Liberty, Jefferson, Roosevelt, Washington, Lincoln, McKinley, Wilson, Cleveland and Monroe. Avenues were named Waits and Henderson, each named for the principal owners of the big lumber company. Charles, named for Judge L. L. Charles, Superintendent of Schools of Washington County from 1888 - 1893, long time teacher, district Justice of the Peace and community leader. Owens, obviously named for a Washington family by the name. Daniels, for W.C. Daniels. Alford, for W.C., J. R. and S. A. Alford, Sr, Chipley-Bonifay naval stores operators and business. Sessions, for K. P. and William A. Sessions, also naval store operators and businessmen. Lindsay, for Ben Lindsay, naval stores operator who became a. state senator for Walton and Holmes Counties.

Caryville was plagued with fires and floods in its early days. The most destructive flood came in March 1929.

Violence is also a part of Caryville's history. On July 1, 1934, Joe Brock and his son Fred were gunned down on a Saturday afternoon in the midst of a crowd gathered at the sawmill commissary, known as the Company Store.

The town continued to survive. It had its own school for 72 years. The L&N passenger train stopped in Caryville as did the Greyhound Bus. Western Union service was available, and the town had a drug store, a post office, numerous churches, two or more service stations and an automobile repair garage.

Si Locke, the town barber, became Justice of the Peace and Harley Nelson was the Constable, with a new 1937 Ford as his police cruiser. Early Hodges store and Jenkins Grocery operated by Mel and Christine McKinnon Jenkins were the main businesses.

The end of the virgin timber harvest did not terminate the forest products industry for Caryville. W. F. Harrison operated a sawmill and E. A. Hodges and Fern Arnold formed a lumber company, which later became Arnold Lumber Company. It remained the community's largest industry as late as 1971. Howell Plywood Corporation operated a plant in Caryville for several years in the post World War II era. Operations were continued on a modest scale by the Harrison and Garner Lumber Company.

In 1954, residents of Caryville, realizing their town charter had lapsed, voted to remain unincorporated. Eleven years later, voters approved incorporation with a charter that withheld police and as valorem taxing powers.

Calvit L. Walker a retired Army officer, was elected mayor. C. C. Barlow was named city clerk members of the town council under the new charter were Franklin P. Evans, Herman Brown, Preston Anderson, Ernest Peters and Luther Whitaker, Gaston Bryan, Cleston Tadlock and Odell Parish were subsequently elected to the council.

A civic awakening was getting started in the town once again. A Wayside Park was added on the banks of the Choctawhatchee River, a totally new water system was installed and Caryville received a minimum custody vocational type prison facility at the south town limits.

Floods from the nearby river continued to take its toll on Caryville residents. A disastrous flooding in 1990, and again in 1994, caused many homes to be destroyed or badly damaged by the high water. In 1996. a massive buyout of homes in Caryville was initiated by FEMA with most of the home owners taking advantage of the offer to sell out and move to higher ground.

Today only a few houses dot the once thriving town of Caryville. City government is intact, however there are no schools or churches, and only a few businesses operate in the town.

Thus, the once booming sawmill town of Caryville has joined the other smaller municipalities of the area in slipping away into almost a total ghost town, leaving a rich heritage and history that will long live in the memory of those who remember the town's colorful past.

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 301 people, 93 households, and 66 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 411 people, 102 households, and 81 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 218 people, 86 households, and 57 families residing in the town. The population density was 72.1 PD/sqmi. There were 110 housing units at an average density of 36.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 73.39% White, 20.64% African American, 1.38% Native American, 2.75% from other races, and 1.83% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.96% of the population.

In 2000, there were 86 households, out of which 36.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.8% were married couples living together, 15.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.6% were non-families. 26.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.53 and the average family size was 3.16.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 32.1% under the age of 18, 6.4% from 18 to 24, 28.9% from 25 to 44, 19.3% from 45 to 64, and 13.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 115.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.3 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $22,500, and the median income for a family was $28,750. Males had a median income of $25,000 versus $15,625 for females. The per capita income for the town was $11,385. About 16.7% of families and 37.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 66.7% of those under the age of eighteen and 35.1% of those 65 or over.

Notable people

 * Robert L. Carter, United States District Court judge and civil rights activist
 * Bob Thorpe, Major League Baseball player

title: Caryville, Florida


text:
Chipley, Florida

Chipley is a city in and the county seat of Washington County, Florida, United States, located between Tallahassee and Pensacola. Its population was 3,660 in the 2020 census, up from 3,605 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Panama City—Panama City Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. The area is served by Chipley High School.

History
Originally called "Orange", the city was renamed Chipley in 1882 for William Dudley Chipley, president of the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad and Florida state senator from 1895 to 1897.

During the cold snap of January 1985, a temperature of 2 degrees Fahrenheit was recorded at one of the city's golf courses, making it the second-coldest Florida temperature ever recorded and the lowest January reading for the state.

The city was officially incorporated in 1901.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the City of Chipley is located at 30.77923°N, -85.53909°W.

The city is located in the Florida Panhandle along Interstate 10 and U.S. Route 90. U.S. Route 90 runs through the downtown area from west to east as Jackson Avenue, and leads east 10 mi to Cottondale and west 9 mi to Bonifay. Interstate 10 runs from west to east south of the city, with access from exit 120 (Florida State Road 77). I-10 leads east 86 mi to Tallahassee, the state capital, and west 116 mi to Pensacola. FL-77 is the main north–south route through the city, and leads north 12 mi to Graceville and south 47 mi to Panama City.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has an area of 4.1 sqmi, all land.

Climate
The City of Chipley is part of the humid subtropical climate zone with a Köppen Climate Classification of "Cfa" (C = mild temperate, f = fully humid, and a = hot summer).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 3,660 people, 1,287 households, and 766 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 3,605 people, 1,256 households, and 692 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there are 3,592 people, 1,442 households, and 908 families residing in the city. The population density was 872.5 /mi2. There were 1,694 housing units at an average density of 411.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city is 67.85% White, 28.51% African American, 1.28% Native American, 0.56% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 0.22% from other races, and 1.56% from two or more races. 1.45% of the population are Hispanic or Latino of any race.

In 2000, there are 1,442 households out of which 28.4% have children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.2% are married couples living together, 19.3% have a female householder with no husband present, and 37.0% are non-families. 33.2% of all households are made up of individuals and 18.0% have someone living alone who is 65 years of age or older. The average household size is 2.33 and the average family size is 2.97.

In 2000, in the city, the population is spread out with 25.1% under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 24.5% from 25 to 44, 21.4% from 45 to 64, and 21.7% who are 65 years of age or older. The median age is 39 years. For every 100 females there are 82.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there are 77.4 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $21,686, and the median income for a family was $28,792. Males had a median income of $23,715 versus $19,662 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,842. About 25.1% of families and 27.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 42.4% of those under age 18 and 22.3% of those age 65 or over.

Points of interest

 * Washington County Courthouse
 * Chipley City Hall
 * Falling Waters State Park
 * South Third Street Historic District
 * Tri-County Airport
 * Woman's Club of Chipley

Education
It is in the Washington County School District, the sole school district in the county.

Notable people

 * Marcel Albert, French Air Ace and Hero of the Soviet Union; lived here
 * Mary Lena Faulk, golfer who won the U.S. Amateur and several professional tournaments; born in Chipley
 * Artis Gilmore, hall-of-fame professional NBA basketball player; born in Chipley and attended Roulhac High School
 * Amasa Coleman Lee, lawyer and legislator in Alabama
 * Amp Lee, halfback at Florida State University and in the NFL
 * Will McLean "father of Florida folk fusic," The Black Hat Troubadour, Florida Artists Hall of Fame
 * Cody Slate, tight end at Marshall University and in the NFL
 * Bert Yancey, Professional Golfers Association player; born in Chipley
 * Trent Forrest, professional basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks; grew up in Chipley.

Media

 * The Washington County News
 * Foster Folly News
 * Chipley Bugle
 * Investigator online newspaper

title: Chipley, Florida


text:
Ebro, Florida

Ebro is a town in Washington County, Florida, United States. The town is part of the Florida Panhandle, and located in North Florida. As of 2020, the population recorded by the U.S. Census Bureau is 237, down from 270 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Panama City—Panama City Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

It is believed that during the Spanish Florida era, the Spanish named the town after the Ebro River in Spain.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the Town of Ebro is located in the southwestern part of Washington County at 30.44306°N, -85.88083°W (30.443152, –85.880790). It is the closest municipality to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

Florida State Roads 20 and 79 are the main roads through the town. FL-79 runs from north to south to the east of the town, leading north 31 mi to Bonifay along Interstate 10 and south 16 mi to U.S. Route 98 near Panama City Beach. FL-20 runs from west to east through the center of town, leading east 51 mi to Blountstown and west 17 mi to Freeport.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 3.2 sqmi. 3.2 sqmi of it is land and 0.1 sqmi of it (1.56%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Ebro has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 237 people, 103 households, and 65 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 270 people, 109 households, and 86 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 250 people, 102 households, and 63 families residing in the town. The population density was 79.4 PD/sqmi. There were 116 housing units at an average density of 36.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 73.60% White, 3.60% African American, 6.40% Native American, 0.40% Pacific Islander, 0.40% from other races, and 15.60% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.40% of the population.

In 2000, there were 102 households, out of which 33.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.1% were married couples living together, 10.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.2% were non-families. 32.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 3.10.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 23.2% under the age of 18, 12.0% from 18 to 24, 29.2% from 25 to 44, 27.6% from 45 to 64, and 8.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 102.1 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $28,750, and the median income for a family was $40,833. Males had a median income of $33,333 versus $25,208 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,504. About 20.6% of families and 21.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 22.6% of those under the age of eighteen and 25.0% of those 65 or over.

title: Ebro, Florida


text:
Vernon, Florida

Vernon is a city in Washington County, Florida. The population was 732 at the 2020 census, up from 687 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Panama City—Panama City Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Vernon is named for George Washington's Virginia home, Mount Vernon. The pioneer city was the site of a major Native American settlement. Vernon held the county seat until 1927, when the seat was moved to Chipley.

The city sits on the Holmes Creek where, during the 1880s, the creek was used as a shipping route to Bonifay and other nearby municipalities. The creek was also used to ship gopher tortoises due to the high value their shell carried at that time. It was officially incorporated as the City of Vernon in 1926.

Vernon gained infamy in the late 1950s and early 1960s due to the improbably high percentage of residents who put out insurance claims on lost limbs, to the point that many speculated that residents of the city were intentionally dismembering themselves for the insurance money. Although there is no real evidence to support these speculations, these insurance claims from Vernon, with a population of 500–800, accounted for as many as 2/3 of claims nationally.

It became known as "nub city" in the 1950s and 1960s for a high number of limb loss insurance claims made in the area. The city was also featured in Errol Morris' 1981 documentary film Vernon, Florida.

Geography
The approximate coordinates for the City of Vernon is located at 30.62167°N, -85.71167°W (30.621699, –85.711628).

Florida State Road 79 is the main route through the city, and leads north 12 mi to Bonifay along Interstate 10 and southwest 18 mi to Ebro. Another more local road, Florida State Road 277, begins in the city and leads northeast 16 mi to Chipley, the Washington County seat.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 4.7 sqmi, all land.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Vernon has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 732 people, 288 households, and 163 families residing in the city.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 687 people, 462 households, and 306 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 743 people, 296 households, and 206 families residing in the city. The population density was 157.3 PD/sqmi. There were 372 housing units at an average density of 78.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 77.25% White, 15.75% African American, 2.42% Native American, 0.67% Asian, 0.13% from other races, and 3.77% from two or more races. Hispanic of any race were 1.48% of the population.

There were 296 households, out of which 29.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.3% were married couples living together, 16.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.4% were non-families. 27.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.80.

In the city the population was spread out, with 27.6% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 24.2% from 25 to 44, 23.7% from 45 to 64, and 16.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $21,176, and the median income for a family was $24,196. Males had a median income of $20,000 versus $15,938 for females. The per capita income for the city was $11,869. About 21.7% of families and 28.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 48.8% of those under age 18 and 28.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The following public schools within the city are operated by the Washington County School District:
 * Vernon Elementary School
 * Vernon Middle School
 * Vernon High School

The district includes the entire county.

title: Vernon, Florida


text:
Wausau, Florida

Wausau is a town in Washington County, Florida, United States. The Town of Wausau is part of the Florida Panhandle in North Florida. The population was 371 at the 2020 census, down from 383 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Panama City–Panama City Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
The exact coordinates for the Town of Wausau is located at 30.63227°N, -85.58927°W.

The town is located in the Florida Panhandle along Florida State Road 77, which is the main route through the town. FL-77 leads north 11 mi (18 km) to Chipley, the Washington County seat, and south 36 mi (58 km) to Panama City.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.1 sqmi, all land.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild winters. According to the Köppen climate classification, the Town of Wausau has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

2010 and 2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 371 people, 172 households, and 92 families residing in the town.

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 383 people, 122 households, and 98 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 398 people, 163 households, and 106 families residing in the town. The population density was 351.8 PD/sqmi. There were 177 housing units at an average density of 156.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.47% White, 0.50% African American, 0.75% Native American, 0.25% Asian, 0.50% from other races, and 3.52% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.51% of the population.

In 2000, there were 163 households, out of which 27.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.9% were married couples living together, 12.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.4% were non-families. 30.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 3.04.

In 2000, in the town, the population was spread out, with 26.9% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 24.1% from 25 to 44, 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 16.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.0 males.

In 2000, the median income for a household in the town was $21,000, and the median income for a family was $23,000. Males had a median income of $20,481 versus $21,563 for females. The per capita income for the town was $10,722. About 25.0% of families and 29.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 35.2% of those under age 18 and 19.7% of those age 65 or over.

Local event
Wausau is the "Possum Capital of the World" and celebrates annually with the Wausau Possum Festival, a celebration of the Virginia opossum.

title: Wausau, Florida


text:
Baxley, Georgia

Baxley is a city in Appling County, Georgia, United States. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 4,942. The city is the county seat of Appling County.

History
Baxley was first settled as a result of the Macon and Brunswick Railroad being built through Appling County in 1870. Originally, it was a railroad depot known as Station Number 7, but soon was named Baxley (after one of the community's first settlers, Wilson Baxley of North Carolina). Baxley incorporated in 1875.

Geography
Baxley is approximately 42 mi east of Douglas, 47 mi north of Waycross and 29 mi southwest of Glennville.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 21.7 km2, of which 0.03 sqkm, or 0.16%, is water.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 4,942 people, 1,436 households, and 1,068 families residing in the city.

Economy
The Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Power Plant is located north of the city along U.S. Route 1, on the banks of the Altamaha River. It is the area's largest employer.

International Forest Products Limited operates a sawmill employing over 50 people.

Education
Appling County students in K-12 grades are in the Appling County School District, which consists of four elementary schools (three include a pre-school), a middle school and a high school. The district has 210 full-time teachers and over 3,303 students.
 * Altamaha Elementary School
 * Appling County Primary School
 * Appling County Elementary School
 * Fourth District Elementary School
 * Appling County Middle School
 * Appling County High School

Notable people

 * Robert Butler, painter best known for his portrayals of the woods and backwaters around Florida's Everglades; member of the African-American artists' group The Highwaymen
 * Byron Buxton, Major League Baseball outfielder; second overall pick (drafted by the Minnesota Twins) in the 2012 MLB draft; 2022 All-Star
 * Dexter Carter, running back for San Francisco 49ers and New York Jets from 1990 to 1996; born in Baxley and graduated from Appling County High School
 * Frankie King, NBA guard for Los Angeles Lakers (1995); born in Baxley
 * The Lacs, country/rap music group; from Baxley
 * Caroline Miller, Georgia's first Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist; received the award for Lamb in His Bosom in 1934
 * Jamie Nails, NFL guard for Buffalo Bills (1997–2000) and Miami Dolphins (2002–2003); born in Baxley
 * Janisse Ray, author of Ecology of a Cracker Childhood (1999), a memoir about growing up in Baxley which includes description of the ecosystem of the vanishing longleaf pine that once covered the area
 * Carl Simpson, defensive tackle for Chicago Bears (1993–1997), Arizona Cardinals (1998–1999), and Las Vegas Outlaws (2001)
 * Harry Skipper, defensive back in the CFL, Montreal Concordes and Saskatchewan Roughriders, 1983–1989
 * Vonzell Solomon, nicknamed Baby V, singer and actress
 * Kandiss Taylor, candidate in the 2022 Georgia gubernatorial election, conservative activist, and host of the show "Jesus, Guns, and Babies"
 * Michael Timpson, wide receiver for New England Patriots (1989–1994), Chicago Bears (1995–1996), and Philadelphia Eagles (1997); born in Baxley

title: Baxley, Georgia


text:
Graham, Georgia

Graham is a city in Appling County, Georgia, United States. The population was 263 in 2020.

History
The community was named after J. H. Graham, an early settler.

The city of Graham was incorporated locally in 1897. Graham was officially granted a charter by the state legislature in 1991.

Geography
Graham is located at 31.83306°N, -82.50361°W (31.832940, -82.503631).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 4.5 km2, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 312 people, 120 households, and 90 families residing in the city. By 2020's census, its population declined to 263.

title: Graham, Georgia


text:
Surrency, Georgia

Surrency is a town in Appling County, Georgia, United States. The population was 194 in 2020.

History
The Georgia General Assembly incorporated Surrency as a town in 1911. The community was named after Millard Surrency, a pioneer citizen.

Geography
Surrency is located at 31.72416°N, -82.19869°W. According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.8 square mile (2.0 km$2$), all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 237 people, 98 households, and 69 families residing in the town. By 2020, its population declined to 194.

title: Surrency, Georgia


text:
Pearson, Georgia

Pearson is a city in Atkinson County, Georgia, United States. The population was 1,821 in 2020. The city is the county seat of Atkinson County.

History
Pearson was founded in 1875 as a depot on the Brunswick and Western Railroad. It was incorporated as a town in 1890 and in 1916 as a city. The community was named after Benajah Pearson, a veteran of the Second Seminole War.

Geography
Pearson is located at 31.29833°N, -82.85278°W (31.298368, -82.852827), within Southeast Georgia. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 8.7 km2, of which 0.02 sqkm, or 0.28%, is water.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,821 people, 674 households, and 426 families residing in the city.

Education
Atkinson County students in K-12 grades are in the Atkinson County School District, which consists of two elementary schools (each includes a pre-school program) and a high school. The district has 102 full-time teachers and over 1,648 students as of 2010.
 * Pearson Elementary School
 * Willacoochee Elementary School
 * Atkinson County Middle School
 * Atkinson County High School

Media

 * WPNG Radio Shine 101.9

Notable people

 * Tyreek Hill, NFL player, raised in Pearson

title: Pearson, Georgia


text:
Willacoochee, Georgia

Willacoochee is a city in Atkinson County, Georgia, United States, along the Alapaha River. The population was 1,240 in 2020.

History
The Georgia General Assembly incorporated Willacoochee as a town in 1889. Willacoochee is a name derived from the Creek language meaning "home of the wildcats".

Geography
Willacoochee is located at 31.33528°N, -83.04639°W (31.335175, -83.046381), within the Southeast Georgia region. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 9.9 km2, all land.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,240 people, 529 households, and 291 families residing in the city, down from 2010's 1,391. Among its population in 2020, 40.32% were non-Hispanic white, 34.11% Black or African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.16% Pacific Islander, 2.26% multiracial, and 22.74% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

title: Willacoochee, Georgia


text:
Alma, Georgia

Alma is a city in Bacon County, Georgia, United States, and the county seat. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 3,433.

Alma is known as Georgia's blueberry capital, and hosts a Blueberry Festival each June.

History
Alma was founded in 1900 as a stop on the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad. It was incorporated as a city in 1906 and designated seat of the newly formed Bacon County in 1914. There are two theories about the origin of the name of the town. The first is that it was named for the wife of a traveling salesmen, Alma Sheridan; the other is that it was named for the initial letter of the four state capitals Georgia has had: Augusta, Louisville, Milledgeville, and Atlanta.

There are four sites in Alma listed on the National Register of Historic Places: Alma Depot, Bacon County Courthouse, Bacon County School, and the Rabinowitz Building.

Geography
Alma is located in southeastern Georgia at 31.54167°N, -82.46667°W (31.541543, -82.466666).

The city is located along U.S. Routes 1 and 23 (Pierce Street). The two run through the center of the city together before splitting just north of the city. U.S. 1 connects the city with Baxley, 19 mi to the north, and U.S. 23 connects the city with Hazlehurst, 25 mi to the northwest. U.S. 1/23 also lead south together 29 mi to Waycross. Other highways that run through the city include Georgia State Routes 32 (16th Street) and 64 (Market Street).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 16.1 km2, of which 14.3 km2 is land and 1.8 km2, or 11.27%, is water.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 3,433 people, 1,005 households, and 620 families residing in the city.

Education
Alma is served by the Bacon County School District. The district has 126 full-time teachers and over 1,900 students, and operates these schools:
 * Bacon County Elementary School
 * Bacon County Primary School
 * Bacon County Middle School
 * Bacon County High School

Alma is also served by Coastal Pines Technical College.

Notable people

 * Harry Crews, novelist, playwright, short story writer and essayist
 * Braswell Deen, U.S. Representative from Georgia; moved to Alma
 * Daniel W. Lee, recipient of Congressional Medal of Honor
 * Walter J. Leonard, former president of Fisk University
 * William M. Wheeler, U.S. Representative from Georgia

title: Alma, Georgia


text:
Newton, Georgia

Newton is a city in Baker County, Georgia, United States. As of the 2020 census, the city population was 602. The city is the county seat of Baker County.

History
Newton was founded in 1837. That same year, the seat of Baker County was transferred to Newton from Byron. There are several properties in Newton listed on the National Register of Historic Places: Baker County Courthouse (Georgia), Notchaway Baptist Church and Cemetery, and Pine Bloom Plantation.

Geography
Newton is located at 31.31667°N, -84.33944°W (31.316804, -84.339549). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 7.8 km2, of which 7.5 km2 is land and 0.3 km2, or 3.50%, is water.

Demographics
According to the census of 2000, there were 851 people, 320 households, and 228 families residing in the city. The population density was 292.7 PD/sqmi. There were 346 housing units at an average density of 119.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 43.60% White, 53.94% African American, 0.12% Native American, 0.94% from other races, and 1.41% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 2.00% of the population. By 2020, its population declined to 602.

Education
There is one K-12 school building for the Baker County School System. It is located on State Route 37 and was named Baker County Elementary/Middle School in 2001. The old school building that housed the students near the courthouse was built in the late 1960s and named East Baker School. It served the local black population during segregation, and now houses the East Baker Historical Society and 21st Century Community Corporation. The high school was returned to Newton for the 2007–2008 school year. From 1980 to 2007, the high school students traveled from Newton to Camilla for high school, formerly Mitchell-Baker High School. The old building is now used for the Baker County Headstart Center. The new gym for Baker County Schools was expected to be completed in 2009.

title: Newton, Georgia


text:
Hardwick, Baldwin County, Georgia

Hardwick is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Baldwin County, Georgia, United States. The population was 3,513 at the 2020 census, down from 5,135 in 2000, at which time it was listed as Midway-Hardwick. It is laid out around Central State Hospital. It is part of the Milledgeville Micropolitan Statistical Area. The zip code for Hardwick is 31034. Hardwick was home to Oglethorpe University during the 19th century.

Geography
Hardwick is located at 33.0525°N, -83.23722°W (33.052571, -83.237130). According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 12.6 km2, of which 0.03 km2, or 0.20%, is water.

Demographics
Hardwick, then known as Midway-Hardwick, was first listed as an unincorporated place in the 1950 U.S. Census and redesignated a census designated place in the 1980 U.S. Census. It was renamed Hardwick CDP in the 2010 U.S. Census.

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 3,513 people, 1,401 households, and 648 families residing in the CDP.

Government and infrastructure
Baldwin State Prison (previously Georgia Women's Correctional Institution) of the Georgia Department of Corrections is located in Milledgeville, near Hardwick.

Notable person

 * William Usery, Jr., United States Secretary of Labor (1976–1977)

title: Hardwick, Baldwin County, Georgia


text:
Milledgeville, Georgia

Milledgeville is a city in and the county seat of Baldwin County in the U.S. state of Georgia. It is northeast of Macon, bordered on the east by the Oconee River. The rapid current of the river here made this an attractive location to build a city. It was the capital of Georgia from 1804 to 1868, including during the American Civil War. Milledgeville was preceded as the capital city by Louisville and was succeeded by Atlanta, the current capital. Today U.S. Highway 441 connects Milledgeville to Madison, Athens, and Dublin.

As of April 1, 2020, the population of Milledgeville was 17,070, down from 17,715 at the 2010 U.S. census.

Milledgeville is along the route of the Fall Line Freeway, which is under construction to link Milledgeville with Augusta, Macon, Columbus, and other Fall Line cities. They have long histories from the colonial era of Georgia.

Milledgeville is the principal city of the Milledgeville micropolitan statistical area, a micropolitan area that includes Baldwin and Hancock counties. It had a combined population of 52,534 at the 2020 census. The Old State Capitol is located here; it was added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Much of the original city is contained within the boundaries of the Milledgeville Historic District, which was also added to the NRHP.

History
Milledgeville, named after Georgia governor John Milledge (in office 1802–1806), was founded by European Americans at the start of the 19th century as the new centrally located capital of the state of Georgia. It served as the state capital from 1804 to 1868.

In 1803 an act of the Georgia legislature called for the establishment and survey of a town to be named in honor of the current governor, John Milledge. The Treaty of Fort Wilkinson (1802) had recently forced Native American tribes to cede territory immediately west of the Oconee River. The white population of Georgia continued to press west and south in search of new farmland. The town of Milledgeville was developed in an area that had long been occupied by indigenous peoples.

In December 1804 the state legislature declared Milledgeville the new capital of Georgia. The new planned town, modeled after Savannah and Washington, D.C., stood on the edge of the frontier at the Atlantic fall line, where the Upper Coastal Plain meets the foothills and plateau of the Piedmont. The area was surveyed, and a town plat of 500 acre was divided into 84 4 acre squares. The survey also included four public squares of 20 acre each.

Life in the antebellum capital
After 1815 Milledgeville became increasingly prosperous and more respectable. Wealth and power gravitated toward the capital. Much of the surrounding countryside was developed by slave labor for cotton plantations, which was the major commodity crop of the South. Cotton bales regularly were set up to line the roads, waiting to be shipped downriver to Darien.

Public-spirited citizens such as Tomlinson Fort (mayor of Milledgeville, 1847–1848) promoted better newspapers, learning academies, and banks. In 1837-1842 the Georgia Lunatic Asylum (later the Central State Hospital) was built here. Oglethorpe University, where the poet Sidney Lanier was later educated, opened its doors in 1838. (The college, forced to close in 1862 during the war, was rechartered in 1913. It moved its campus to Atlanta.)

The cotton boom in this upland area significantly increased the demand for slave labor. The town market, where slave auctions took place, was located on Capital Square, next to the Presbyterian church. Skilled black carpenters, masons, and laborers were forced to construct most of the handsome antebellum structures in Milledgeville.

Two events epitomized Milledgeville's status as the political and social center of Georgia in this period:

 * In 1825 the capital was visited by American Revolutionary War hero and aristocrat, the Marquis de Lafayette. The receptions, barbecue, formal dinner, and grand ball for the veteran apostle of liberty seemed to mark Milledgeville's coming of age.
 * The Governor's Mansion was constructed (1836-38/39); it was one of the most important examples of Greek revival architecture in America.

By 1854 Baldwin County had a total population of 8,148, of whom 3,566 were free (mostly white), and 4,602 were African American slaves.

American Civil War and its aftermath
On January 19, 1861, Georgia convention delegates passed the Ordinance of Secession, and on February 4, 1861, the "Republic of Georgia" joined the Confederate States of America. In November 1864, Union General William T. Sherman and 30,000 Union troops marched into Milledgeville during his March to the Sea. Governor Joseph E. Brown had already packed up the rugs and curtains from the Governor's Mansion, and fled town with other political and military leaders, leaving the public unprotected. Sherman largely spared the town destruction, though burned some buildings with military uses. Sherman's troops are claimed to have poured sorghum and molasses down the pipes of the organ at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church; the organ was replaced by New York Life Insurance Company.

In 1868, during Reconstruction, the state legislature moved the capital to Atlanta—a city emerging as the symbol of the New South as surely as Milledgeville symbolized the Old South.

Milledgeville struggled to survive as a city after losing the business of the capital. The energetic efforts of local leaders established the Middle Georgia Military and Agricultural College (later Georgia Military College) in 1879 on Statehouse Square. Where the crumbling remains of the old penitentiary stood, Georgia Normal and Industrial College (later Georgia College & State University) was founded in 1889. In part because of these institutions, as well as Central State Hospital, Milledgeville developed as a less provincial town than many of its neighbors.

Twentieth century to present
In the 1950s the Georgia Power Company completed a dam at Furman Shoals on the Oconee River, about 5 mi north of town, creating a huge reservoir called Lake Sinclair. The lake community became an increasingly important part of the town's social and economic identity.

In the 1980s and 1990s Milledgeville began to capitalize on its heritage by revitalizing the downtown and historic district. It encouraged restoration of historic buildings and an urban design scheme on Main Street to emphasize its character.

By 2000 the population of Milledgeville and Baldwin County combined had grown to 44,700. Community leaders have made concerted efforts to create a more diversified economic base, striving to wean the old capital from its dependence on government institutions such as Central State Hospital and state prisons. The state has recently closed some prisons and reduced jobs at Central State, due to tightening state budgets.

Geography
Milledgeville is located at 33.08778°N, -83.23333°W (33.087755, -83.233401) and is 301 ft above sea level.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 53.3 km2, of which 52.9 km2 is land and 0.4 km2, or 0.74%, is water.

U.S. Route 441 is the main route through the city, leading north 21 mi to Eatonton and south 22 mi to Irwinton. Georgia State Routes 22, 24, and 49 also run through the city as well. GA-22 leads northeast 24 mi to Sparta and southwest 20 mi to Gray. GA-24 leads east 29 mi to Sandersville and north to Eatonton with U.S. 441. GA-49 leads southwest 30 mi to Macon.

Milledgeville is located on the Atlantic Seaboard fall line of the United States. The Oconee River flows a half mile east of downtown on its way south to the Altamaha River and then south to the Atlantic Ocean. Lake Sinclair, a man-made lake, is about 5 mi northeast of Milledgeville on the border of Baldwin, Putnam and Hancock counties.

Milledgeville is composed of two main districts: a heavily commercialized area along the highway known to locals simply as "441," extending from a few blocks north of Georgia College & State University to 4 mi north of Milledgeville, and the "Downtown" area, encompassing the college, buildings housing city government agencies, various bars and restaurants. This historic area was laid out in 1803, with streets named after other counties in Georgia.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 17,070 people, 5,895 households, and 2,852 families residing in the city.

Government
The Milledgeville City Council is the city's legislative body, with the power to enact all ordinances and resolutions and controls the funding of all designated programs. Six council members are elected to represent their district, while the mayor is elected at-large, by city voters, for a four-year term.

City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Meetings are open to the public and televised locally on MBC TV-4 Milledgeville/Baldwin County Governmental/Educational Access Cable Channel on local Charter Communications.

In the November 2017 general election, incumbent Mayor Gary Thrower was defeated by Mary Parham-Copelan. She was sworn in as the city's first African American female mayor on December 29, 2017.

Elected officials :

Mayor: Mary Parham-Copelan

Council District 1: Dr. Collinda Lee

Council District 2: Jeanette Walden

Council District 3: Denese Shinholster

Council District 4: Walter Reynolds

Council District 5: Shonya Mapp

Council District 6: Stephen Chambers – Council President Pro-Tem

Education
Milledgeville's public school system is governed by the Baldwin County School District.

Public elementary schools

 * Lakeview Academy
 * Lakeview Primary
 * Midway Hills Academy
 * Midway Hills Primary

Public middle school

 * Oak Hill Middle School

Public high school

 * Baldwin High School

Private schools

 * Georgia Military College prep school (grades K–12)
 * John Milledge Academy (grades K–12)

Schools for higher education

 * Central Georgia Technical College
 * Georgia College & State University (commonly known as Georgia College)
 * Georgia Military College

Libraries
Milledgeville's public library system is part of the Middle Georgia Regional Library System. Mary Vinson Memorial Library is located downtown. Georgia College & State University also has a library.

Historic schools
The school system building facilities were revamped during the 1990s and first decade of the 21st century, with all new buildings, including a new Board of Education office. This required relocation and merging of older schools. The concept of a middle school was introduced, whereas previously 6th through 9th grades were housed in separate schools. Closed older schools include:
 * Northside Elementary School (now a shopping center)
 * Southside Elementary School (now a church)
 * West End Elementary School (torn down)
 * Harrisburg Elementary School (torn down)
 * Baldwin Middle School (was located in old Baldwin High School) no
 * Boddie Junior High School (8th and 9th grades)
 * Baldwin High School (old location)
 * Carver Elementary School (5th and 6th grades / now an alternate school)
 * Sallie Davis Middle School (7th grade)

Major roads

 * US 441.svg U.S. Route 441
 * U.S. Route 441 Business
 * Georgia 22.svg State Route 22
 * Georgia 49.svg State Route 49

Pedestrians and cycling

 * Oconee River Greenway

Notable people

 * Melvin Adams, Jr, better known as Fish Scales from the band Nappy Roots
 * Andrew J. Allen, concert saxophonist
 * Nathan Crawford Barnett, Georgia Secretary of State for more than 30 years
 * Ella Barksdale Brown, journalist, educator
 * Kevin Brown, professional baseball player
 * Javon Bullard, college football player for the University of Georgia
 * Tasha Butts, basketball player and coach
 * Wally Butts, college football coach
 * Earnest Byner, professional football player
 * Lisa D. Cook, American economist
 * Pete Dexter, novelist, journalist and screenwriter
 * George Doles, Confederate Brigadier General
 * Henry Derek Elis, vocalist for heavy metal supergroup Act of Defiance
 * Tillie K. Fowler, politician
 * Joel Godard, television announcer
 * Marjorie Taylor Greene, United States Representative
 * Willie Greene, professional baseball player
 * Floyd Griffin, mayor of Milledgeville, state representative, state senator
 * Oliver Hardy, motion picture comedian
 * Nick Harper, professional football player
 * Charles Holmes Herty, academic, scientist, businessman and first football coach at the University of Georgia
 * Leroy Hill, professional football player
 * Maurice Hurt, professional football player
 * Edwin Francis Jemison, Civil War soldier who died in battle
 * Sherrilyn Kenyon, author
 * Grace Lumpkin, writer
 * William Gibbs McAdoo, US Secretary of the Treasury
 * David Brydie Mitchell, the only Governor of Georgia buried in Milledgeville
 * Celena Mondie-Milner, professional track and field player
 * Powell A. Moore, politician and public servant
 * Otis Murphy, international saxophone soloist and professor at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
 * Flannery O'Connor, author, winner of the 1972 U.S. National Book Award for Fiction
 * Ulrich Bonnell Phillips, historian
 * Barry Reese, writer
 * Lucius Sanford, professional football player
 * Carrie Bell Sinclair, poet
 * Tut Taylor, bluegrass musician
 * Ellis Paul Torrance, psychologist
 * Larry Turner, professional basketball player
 * William Usery Jr., labor union activist and U.S. Secretary of Labor
 * Carl Vinson, congressman
 * J. T. Wall, professional football player
 * Rico Washington, professional baseball player
 * Rondell White, professional baseball player
 * Robert McAlpin Williamson, Republic of Texas Supreme Court Justice and Texas Ranger

title: Milledgeville, Georgia


text:
Alto, Georgia

Alto is a town in Banks and Habersham counties in the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2010 census, the town had a population of 1,172, up from 876 at the 2000 census.

History
Alto was so named on account of its (relatively) lofty elevation (1,394 feet above mean sea level). A post office called Alto has been in operation since 1879. The town incorporated in 1895.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.9 km2, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 876 people, 304 households, and 227 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,061.2 PD/sqmi. There were 325 housing units at an average density of 393.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 79.22% White, 3.08% African American, 0.34% Native American, 5.94% Asian, 9.02% from other races, and 2.40% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 20.09% of the population.

There were 304 households, out of which 37.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.2% were married couples living together, 8.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.3% were non-families. 21.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.88 and the average family size was 3.35.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 29.3% under the age of 18, 12.8% from 18 to 24, 32.0% from 25 to 44, 18.5% from 45 to 64, and 7.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females there were 106.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $30,750, and the median income for a family was $36,094. Males had a median income of $23,393 versus $18,571 for females. The per capita income for the town was $11,434. Below the poverty line were 15.6% of people, 11.2% of families, 12.2% of those under 18 and 15.6% of those over 64.

Government and infrastructure
The government for the town of Alto is housed in a structure with an unusual history. When the new Cornelia Bank was built in nearby Cornelia in the late 1970s, the small building housing the old remote drive-in teller windows was moved to its current location on a lot across Georgia Hwy 441 from the Riegel Textile Mill (now Mt. Vernon Mills) in Alto and converted for office use.

The Georgia Department of Corrections operates the Arrendale State Prison in unincorporated Habersham County, near Alto.

Education
The portion in Banks County is in the Banks County School District. Students in that portion are zoned to Banks County High School.

The portion in Habersham County is in the Habersham County School District.

title: Alto, Georgia


text:
Baldwin, Georgia

Baldwin is a city in Banks and Habersham counties in the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2010 census, the city had a population of 3,279, up from 2,425 at the 2000 census.

Baldwin is located on U.S. Route 441 just south of Georgia State Route 365. Baldwin sits astride the Eastern Continental Divide, which separates waters flowing southeastward toward the Savannah River and the Atlantic Ocean from waters flowing southwestward toward the Chattahoochee River and the Gulf of Mexico. City Hall sits in Habersham County. Baldwin borders the slightly larger city of Cornelia, which houses the Habersham Chamber of Commerce. Nearby in Demorest is Piedmont University. Also nearby is Lake Russell, a recreation area in Chattahoochee National Forest. The Habersham County airport is in Baldwin. The largest employer is Fieldale Corporation, a chicken processing company.

Geography
Baldwin is located in northeastern Georgia and is split between Banks and Habersham County. It is located along two major arterial routes: U.S. Highway 441 and U.S. Highway 23/Georgia State Highway 365, both of which are divided four-lane highways. Highway 23/365 becomes Interstate 985 in Gainesville, 17 mi southwest of the Baldwin limits.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 12.7 km2, all land.

Baldwin is home to the Habersham County Airport, located on the north side of town. The airport offers a 5500 ft paved runway at 1447 ft above sea level. It serves as the gateway airport to the Georgia mountains with its central location in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 3,629 people, 984 households, and 772 families residing in the city.

2010 census
According to the 2010 census, the population of Baldwin was 3,279, representing a population growth in the previous decade of 35.2%.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,425 people, 845 households, and 583 families residing in the city. The population density was 674.9 PD/sqmi. There were 912 housing units at an average density of 253.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 83.22% White, 3.71% African American, 0.33% Native American, 2.43% Asian, 0.82% Pacific Islander, 6.89% from other races, and 2.60% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 25.86% of the population.

There were 845 households, out of which 36.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.2% were married couples living together, 12.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.9% were non-families. 26.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.26.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 26.2% under the age of 18, 13.5% from 18 to 24, 29.4% from 25 to 44, 16.3% from 45 to 64, and 14.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.1 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $29,299, and the median income for a family was $33,011. Males had a median income of $25,409 versus $21,823 for females. The per capita income for the city was $14,059. About 20.0% of families and 26.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 32.5% of those under age 18 and 33.8% of those age 65 or over.

Just over sixty percent of Baldwin's population is a high school graduate or higher. Twelve and half percent have a bachelor's degree or higher.

21.3% of Baldwin's workforce are in management, professional and related occupations, 15.7% are in service occupations, 19.2% are in sales and office occupations, 1.5% are in agricultural occupations, 12.1% are in construction, extraction and maintenance occupations, and 30.2% are in production, transportation and material moving occupations.

Baldwin has a cost of living index of 82.9 against a U.S. average of 100.0. Crime rates in Baldwin have decreased 53% since 2003, with zero violent crimes in 2009 (the latest reported figures). Baldwin's crime index for 2009 was 77.0 against the U.S. average of 319.1. (A higher number equates to more crimes committed.)

History
Baldwin was incorporated by an act of the Georgia General Assembly on December 17, 1896. The city was named in honor of Joseph A. Baldwin, a railroad official.

Education
The portion in Banks County is in the Banks County School District. Students there are zoned to Banks County High School.

The portion in Habersham County is in the Habersham County School District.

Notable people

 * Buck Simmons (1946-2012), Dirt Super Late Model Legend and NASCAR Winston Cup Series driver

Nearby institutions
The closest hospital is Habersham County Medical Center in Demorest. Stephens County Hospital is to the northeast in Toccoa, and Northeast Georgia Medical Center is to the southwest in Gainesville. Colleges and universities in the region include:
 * University of Georgia (Athens, GA), 41 miles to the south
 * University of North Georgia (Gainesville, 28 miles southwest, & Dahlonega, 32 miles west)
 * Brenau University (Gainesville, 22 miles southwest)
 * Athens Technical College (Athens, 41 miles south)
 * Georgia Gwinnett College (Gwinnett, 51 miles southwest)
 * Piedmont University (Demorest, 6 miles north)
 * North Georgia Technical College (Clarkesville, 12 miles north)

Comprehensive plan update
In 2007, the city of Baldwin began efforts to develop its Comprehensive Plan Update. This document provides three key planning elements: a Community Assessment with supporting data, a Community Participation Plan and a Community Agenda. The Assessment provides an overview of current conditions in the city and identifies key challenges being faced by our community.

The Community Participation Plan establishes a process for ensuring active public participation and involvement in developing a community vision, setting goals for the future and establishing the community's agenda for the next decade. Finally, the Community Agenda serves as the city's action plan for carrying out this new vision, achieving the goals and objectives as defined in the plan and it serves as a tool for measuring our success during the implementation phase.

title: Baldwin, Georgia


text:
Gillsville, Georgia

Gillsville is a city in Banks and Hall counties in the U.S. state of Georgia. The population was 235 at the 2010 census.

The Hall County portion of Gillsville is part of the Gainesville, Georgia Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
The community was named after the local Gills family.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 1.1 sqmi, all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 306 people, 90 households, and 68 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 195 people, 79 households, and 57 families residing in the city. The population density was 171.3 PD/sqmi. There were 90 housing units at an average density of 79.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 99.49% White, and 0.51% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.54% of the population.

There were 79 households, out of which 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.1% were married couples living together, 5.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.6% were non-families. 21.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 2.91.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 20.0% under the age of 18, 7.7% from 18 to 24, 27.2% from 25 to 44, 25.6% from 45 to 64, and 19.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $51,500, and the median income for a family was $62,750. Males had a median income of $35,417 versus $28,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $27,551. None of the families and 3.7% of the population were living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 7.5% of those over 64.

Education
The portion in Banks County is in the Banks County School District. Students there are zoned to Banks County High School.

The portion in Hall County is in the Hall County School District.

title: Gillsville, Georgia


text:
Homer, Georgia

Homer is a town in Banks County, Georgia, United States. The population was 1,141 at the 2010 census. The town is the county seat of Banks County.

History
The community was named after Homer Jackson, a pioneer citizen. Homer was founded in 1858 as seat for the newly established Banks County. Homer was incorporated as a town in 1859, and its first courthouse was built in 1863.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 25.0 km2, of which 24.9 sqkm is land and 0.1 sqkm, or 0.38%, is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 950 people, 366 households, and 249 families residing in the town. The population density was 99.1 PD/sqmi. There were 406 housing units at an average density of 42.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 84.32% White, 11.79% African American, 1.16% Native American, 0.84% Asian, 1.16% from other races, and 0.74% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 2.00% of the population.

There were 366 households, out of which 36.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.4% were married couples living together, 10.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.7% were non-families. 26.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.60 and the average family size was 3.16.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.1% under the age of 18, 10.5% from 18 to 24, 29.1% from 25 to 44, 20.5% from 45 to 64, and 11.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.1 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $35,500, and the median income for a family was $41,667. Males had a median income of $30,147 versus $23,438 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,353. About 8.9% of families and 13.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.3% of those under age 18 and 21.1% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
Homer is among the earliest to hold the world record for an Easter egg hunt - 80,000 eggs, listed in the 1985 Guinness Book of World Records. The event in the small town of 1,100 people is an Easter Sunday tradition that has lasted 47 years. The egg hunt each year draws about 5,000 egg hunters, children and adults. Even though it no longer holds the record, Homer has long touted its annual hunt as the world's largest.

Education
Banks County students in kindergarten to grade twelve are in the Banks County School District, which consists of two elementary schools, a middle school and a high school. The district has 150 full-time teachers and over 2,428 students.
 * Banks County Elementary School
 * Banks County Primary School
 * Banks County Middle School
 * Banks County High School

title: Homer, Georgia


text:
Lula, Georgia

Lula is a city in Hall and Banks counties in the U.S. state of Georgia. Most of the city is in Hall County, with a small eastern portion of the city located in Banks County. The population was 2,822 at the 2020 census. The Hall County portion of Lula is part of the Gainesville, GA Metropolitan Statistical Area. Lula is the home of RailRoad Days, a yearly festival held usually every May. Lula is the railroad junction between the Atlanta northeast line and the Athens north line of Norfolk Southern Railway.

Major roads near Lula are Georgia Highway 51, Georgia Highway 52, Georgia Highway 365, U.S. Route 23, and old US 23.

History
The rail spur from Athens to Lula was completed in 1874 for the North Eastern Railroad. Civil engineers Joel Hurt and his brother Fletcher named the town in honor of Miss Lula Phinizy, later Mrs. Abner W. Calhoun, whom they both admired.

The Georgia General Assembly incorporated Lula as a town in 1905.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 11.2 sqkm, of which 0.03 sqkm, or 0.26%, is water.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 2,822 people, 1,012 households, and 724 families residing in the city.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,438 people, 531 households, and 399 families residing in the city. The population density was 520.1 PD/sqmi. There were 585 housing units at an average density of 211.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 89.71% White, 8.14% African American, 0.42% Asian, 0.07% Pacific Islander, 1.25% from other races, and 0.42% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.23% of the population.

There were 531 households, out of which 39.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.5% were married couples living together, 12.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.7% were non-families. 20.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.71 and the average family size was 3.13.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 28.0% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 31.6% from 25 to 44, 21.1% from 45 to 64, and 10.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $36,741, and the median income for a family was $43,667. Males had a median income of $30,195 versus $23,750 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,246. About 7.5% of families and 11.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 14.0% of those under age 18 and 17.9% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The portion in Hall County is in the Hall County School District. Lula Elementary School is in the Hall district. Residents are zoned to East Hall Middle School and East Hall High School.

The portion in Banks County is in the Banks County School District. Students there are zoned to Banks County High School.

title: Lula, Georgia