Cities and Towns in Ben Hill County, Georgia

Founded in 1906, Ben Hill County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Ben Hill County was formed from Irwin and Wilcox counties. The city of Fitzgerald is the county seat. With FIPS code of 17, Ben Hill County has a population of 17,158 and area of 252 square miles (653 km²).

List of all cities in Ben Hill County, GA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Fitzgerald, GA 31750 229

Major Cities and Towns in Ben Hill County, Georgia

Fitzgerald

Overview

Fitzgerald, the county seat of Ben Hill County, is a city with a unique history rooted in post-Civil War reconciliation. Founded in 1895 by Philander H. Fitzgerald, a former Union army drummer boy, the city was established as a colony for Civil War veterans from both the North and South. The city was carefully planned and laid out, with wide streets and plenty of green space, reflecting its founders’ vision of creating a peaceful, thriving community. Fitzgerald quickly grew into a regional center for agriculture, particularly for cotton and tobacco. Today, the city is known for its historic downtown, which features a variety of well-preserved buildings that reflect its rich heritage. Fitzgerald is also recognized for its wild Burmese chickens that roam freely around the city, adding to its distinctive charm.

Key Information

  • Area: Approximately 8.6 square miles
  • Population: Around 9,000 (latest census)
  • Zip Codes: 31750
  • Latitude: 31.7145° N
  • Longitude: 83.2521° W

Schools and Landmarks

Fitzgerald is served by the Ben Hill County School District, with Fitzgerald High School and Ben Hill County Elementary School being key educational institutions. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Blue and Gray Museum, which is housed in the historic railroad depot and offers exhibits on the city’s founding and Civil War history. Another notable site is the Grand Theatre, a historic venue that hosts live performances and community events. The Fitzgerald Historic District is also of interest, showcasing the city’s unique architectural heritage. Additionally, the city hosts the annual Wild Chicken Festival, celebrating the free-roaming chickens that have become a symbol of Fitzgerald.


Queensland

Overview

Queensland is a small, unincorporated community in Ben Hill County, known for its rural charm and strong agricultural roots. The area around Queensland has historically been devoted to farming, with cotton, peanuts, and timber being the primary industries. Although Queensland is not incorporated as a town, it is recognized for its tight-knit community and peaceful surroundings. The history of Queensland is closely tied to the land, with many families in the area having farmed there for generations. The community’s location in the heart of Georgia’s agricultural belt makes it a quiet and picturesque place, offering a glimpse into the state’s rural past.

Key Information

  • Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles
  • Population: Around 200 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 31750
  • Latitude: 31.6778° N
  • Longitude: 83.2990° W

Schools and Landmarks

Queensland is part of the Ben Hill County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Fitzgerald. The community is characterized by its rural landscapes, with rolling fields and farmland dominating the scenery. While there are no significant landmarks within Queensland itself, its proximity to Fitzgerald allows residents easy access to the cultural and historical sites in the county seat. The surrounding area is popular for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy the tranquility of rural life.


Bowen’s Mill

Overview

Bowen’s Mill is a small, unincorporated community in Ben Hill County, known for its historic significance and connection to Georgia’s early industrial history. The community is named after the historic Bowen’s Mill, a gristmill that was established in the 19th century and played a key role in the local economy. The mill served as a center for agricultural processing, providing services to the surrounding farming communities. Although the mill is no longer in operation, the area retains its historical character, with remnants of the past still visible in the landscape. Bowen’s Mill offers a quiet, rural setting with deep ties to the history of Ben Hill County.

Key Information

  • Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles
  • Population: Around 150 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 31750
  • Latitude: 31.6645° N
  • Longitude: 83.3078° W

Schools and Landmarks

Bowen’s Mill is served by the Ben Hill County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Fitzgerald. The most significant landmark in the area is the site of the old Bowen’s Mill, which, although no longer operational, remains a point of historical interest. The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty, with forests and streams providing a scenic backdrop. The community’s rural location offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography. Bowen’s Mill represents a piece of Georgia’s rural heritage, making it a unique and peaceful place to live.

Map of Cities in Ben Hill County, GA

Map of Cities in Ben Hill County, GA