Cities and Towns in McIntosh County, Georgia
Founded in 1793, McIntosh County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, McIntosh County was formed from Liberty County. The city of Darien is the county seat. With FIPS code of 191, McIntosh County has a population of 11,123 and area of 434 square miles (1,124 km²).
List of all cities in McIntosh County, GA alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Ashintilly, GA | 31331 | 912 |
Carnigan, GA | 31319 | 912 |
Cox, GA | 31331 | 912 |
Crescent, GA | 31304 | 912 |
Darien, GA | 31305 | 912 |
Eulonia, GA | 31331 | 912 |
Meridian, GA | 31319 | 912 |
Ridgeville, GA | 31331 | 912 |
Sapelo Island, GA | 31327 | 912 |
Shellman Bluff, GA | 31331 | 912 |
Townsend, GA | 31331 | 912 |
Valona, GA | 31319 | 912 |
Major Cities and Towns in McIntosh County, Georgia
Darien
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,764 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 31305
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.3702° N, 81.4334° W
Location and History
Darien is the county seat of McIntosh County, located along the coast of Georgia near the mouth of the Altamaha River. The town was founded in 1736 by Scottish Highlanders, making it one of the oldest settlements in Georgia. Initially called New Inverness, it was later renamed Darien in 1760, after the failed Scottish colony of Darien in Panama. Throughout the 19th century, Darien became a major shipping center for cotton, rice, and timber, thanks to its strategic location on the coast. The town was heavily impacted during the Civil War when it was burned by Union troops in 1863 but was later rebuilt. Today, Darien is known for its historic charm, with many preserved buildings and sites that reflect its long history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Darien is served by the McIntosh County School District, with McIntosh County Academy being the primary high school in the area. The school offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs, including sports and arts. Major landmarks in Darien include Fort King George, the oldest English fort on Georgia’s coast, which offers a glimpse into the colonial history of the area. The Darien Historic Waterfront Park is another key attraction, providing scenic views of the river and opportunities for boating and fishing. The city’s downtown area features historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. The annual Blessing of the Fleet festival celebrates Darien’s rich maritime heritage with parades, music, and seafood.
Townsend
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: Not officially defined as a separate area
- Population: Part of the unincorporated population of McIntosh County
- Zip Codes: 31331
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.5119° N, 81.4443° W
Location and History
Townsend is an unincorporated community in McIntosh County, located along U.S. Route 17 and Interstate 95. The area is named after the Townsend family, who were early settlers and prominent landowners in the region. Townsend developed as a small, rural community with a strong connection to agriculture and timber production. The nearby Sapelo Island, accessible from Townsend, has played a significant role in the area’s history, particularly in relation to the Gullah-Geechee culture, which is still present in the region. Today, Townsend is a quiet community that serves as a gateway to the natural beauty and historical sites of McIntosh County, including Sapelo Island and the surrounding coastal marshes.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Townsend is part of the McIntosh County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Darien, including McIntosh County Middle School and McIntosh County Academy. The community is close to several natural and historic sites that attract visitors and residents alike. Major landmarks near Townsend include the Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge, which offers a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, alligators, and deer. The refuge is a popular destination for birdwatching, hiking, and photography. Additionally, the nearby Sapelo Island, accessible by ferry, is home to the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve and the historic Reynolds Mansion. The area’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various local events and festivals, including the Sapelo Island Cultural Day.
Eulonia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: Not officially defined as a separate area
- Population: Part of the unincorporated population of McIntosh County
- Zip Codes: 31331
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.5457° N, 81.4665° W
Location and History
Eulonia is an unincorporated community in McIntosh County, situated along U.S. Route 17, also known as the Coastal Highway. The area has deep roots in the Gullah-Geechee culture, a unique African-American culture that developed among enslaved Africans in the Lowcountry regions of Georgia and South Carolina. Eulonia has historically been a small, close-knit community with strong ties to the land and the sea, relying on agriculture, fishing, and small-scale commerce. The community is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in the local traditions, food, and festivals. Eulonia’s location near the coast and its proximity to natural areas make it a gateway to exploring the region’s history and natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eulonia is served by the McIntosh County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Darien, including McIntosh County Academy and Todd Grant Elementary School. The community is known for its cultural and natural landmarks, which attract visitors interested in the Gullah-Geechee heritage and the area’s natural environment. Major landmarks in and around Eulonia include the Hog Hammock community on nearby Sapelo Island, which is one of the last remaining Gullah-Geechee communities in the region. The community preserves the language, traditions, and crafts of the Gullah-Geechee people. Additionally, the area is known for its beautiful coastal landscapes, including salt marshes, creeks, and rivers, which provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Eulonia’s annual cultural events celebrate the community’s rich heritage and connection to the land.