Cities and Towns in McDuffie County, Georgia
Founded in 1870, McDuffie County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, McDuffie County was formed from Columbia and Warren. The city of Thomson is the county seat. With FIPS code of 189, McDuffie County has a population of 21,633 and area of 260 square miles (673 km²).
List of all cities in McDuffie County, GA alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Boneville, GA | 30806 | 706/762 |
Dearing, GA | 30808 | 706/762 |
Thomson, GA | 30824 | 706/762 |
Winfield, GA | 30824 | 706/762 |
Major Cities and Towns in McDuffie County, Georgia
Thomson
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 4.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,814 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 30824
- Latitude and Longitude: 33.4704° N, 82.5037° W
Location and History
Thomson is the county seat of McDuffie County, located in east-central Georgia. The town was originally known as “Slashes” due to the nearby swampy area but was later renamed after John Edgar Thomson, the president of the Georgia Railroad. Incorporated in 1854, Thomson grew rapidly with the arrival of the railroad, becoming a key stop along the line between Augusta and Atlanta. The town’s economy was historically centered on agriculture, particularly cotton, and it became known as the “Camellia City of the South” due to the many camellias planted throughout the area. Over the years, Thomson has developed a reputation for its Southern charm and hospitality, maintaining a rich history that is reflected in its historic downtown and well-preserved buildings.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thomson is served by the McDuffie County School District, with Thomson High School being the primary educational institution. The school offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including strong athletics, particularly in football. Major landmarks in Thomson include the Hickory Hill, the historic home of Thomas E. Watson, a prominent politician, and writer. Hickory Hill is now a museum and cultural center that offers insights into the history and politics of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Another key landmark is the Thomson-McDuffie County Museum, which showcases the area’s history, including exhibits on local agriculture, industry, and notable residents. The Belle Meade Country Club, with its golf course and recreational facilities, is also a popular destination for residents and visitors. Thomson’s annual Camellia City Festival celebrates the town’s floral heritage with parades, crafts, and community events.
Dearing
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 529 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 30808
- Latitude and Longitude: 33.4093° N, 82.3887° W
Location and History
Dearing is a small town located in McDuffie County, just a few miles southeast of Thomson. The town was incorporated in 1910 and was named after William Dearing, a local landowner and businessman who played a significant role in the area’s development. Dearing developed as a modest agricultural community, with cotton farming being the primary industry. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century contributed to the town’s growth, although it has remained a small, rural community. Today, Dearing is known for its peaceful, close-knit atmosphere and its strong sense of community. The town’s rural landscape, dotted with farms and open spaces, provides a scenic backdrop to daily life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dearing is part of the McDuffie County School District, with students attending Dearing Elementary School before moving on to Thomson-McDuffie Middle School and Thomson High School. The town itself is home to several historic churches and buildings that reflect its early 20th-century origins. Major landmarks in Dearing include the Dearing Railroad Depot, a historic structure that harks back to the town’s railroad heritage. The depot, though no longer in operation, is a symbol of the town’s history and is occasionally used for community events. The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing in nearby streams and lakes. Dearing’s annual Fall Festival is a popular event that brings the community together with food, music, and crafts, celebrating the town’s rural roots and community spirit.