Cities and Towns in Wilkes County, Georgia

Founded in 1777, Wilkes County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Wilkes County was formed from Cherokee and Creek Cessions of 1773. The city of Washington is the county seat. With FIPS code of 317, Wilkes County has a population of 9,513 and area of 471 square miles (1,220 km²).

List of all cities in Wilkes County, GA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Danburg, GA 30668 706/762
Philomath, GA 30660 706/762
Rayle, GA 30660 706/762
Tignall, GA 30668 706/762
Washington, GA 30673 706/762

Major Cities and Towns in Wilkes County, Georgia

Washington

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 7.9 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,000 (as of the 2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 30673
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.7365° N, 82.7393° W

Location and History

Washington is the county seat and largest city in Wilkes County, Georgia. Established in 1780 and named in honor of George Washington, it is one of the oldest towns in the state. Washington played a significant role during the Revolutionary War and later during the Civil War, with its history deeply intertwined with the state’s early development. The city is known for being the site of the final meeting of the Confederate cabinet and the location where the Confederacy was formally dissolved in 1865. Washington’s downtown area is rich with antebellum homes and historic buildings, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Washington is served by the Wilkes County School District, which includes Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School, Washington-Wilkes Middle School, and Washington-Wilkes Elementary School. Key landmarks in the city include the Robert Toombs House Historic Site, which was the home of the Confederate leader, and the Callaway Plantation, a living history site that preserves early 19th-century plantation life. The historic downtown area, with its array of well-preserved homes and the Washington Historical Museum, offers a deep dive into the region’s past. The annual Washington-Wilkes Spring Tour of Homes draws visitors interested in architecture and history. Washington’s blend of rich history, educational facilities, and cultural landmarks make it a central and vibrant part of Wilkes County.

Tignall

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 500 (as of the 2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 30668
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.8610° N, 82.7404° W

Location and History

Tignall is a small town located in the northern part of Wilkes County, Georgia. Incorporated in 1907, the town was named after local resident C. C. Tignall, a prominent figure in the area. Tignall has historically been an agricultural community, with cotton, corn, and livestock farming playing significant roles in its economy. The town has maintained its rural charm and small-town atmosphere, making it a close-knit community where residents enjoy a quiet lifestyle. Despite its size, Tignall has a strong sense of history and community, with traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tignall is served by the Wilkes County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Washington, including Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School. The town’s notable landmarks include the Tignall Methodist Church, established in the early 20th century, which has been a focal point of the community for decades. The surrounding rural landscape offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The town’s annual events, including local festivals and community gatherings, reflect Tignall’s strong community spirit. Tignall’s blend of rural charm, historical significance, and strong community ties make it an important part of Wilkes County.

Rayle

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.8 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 180 (as of the 2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 30660
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.7935° N, 82.9029° W

Location and History

Rayle is a small town located in the western part of Wilkes County, Georgia. The town was incorporated in 1907 and was named after a local family that played a significant role in the town’s early development. Like many small towns in the region, Rayle has a history rooted in agriculture, with cotton and other crops being central to its economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped boost the town’s growth, although Rayle has remained a small, rural community with a close-knit population. The town is known for its peaceful environment and strong community values.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rayle is served by the Wilkes County School District, with students attending schools in Washington, such as Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School. The town’s landmarks include the Rayle Baptist Church, a historic church that has been a gathering place for the community for many years. The rural surroundings offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and hunting. Rayle’s small size and quiet atmosphere make it a tight-knit community where residents take pride in their town’s history and traditions. The town’s annual events, such as local church gatherings and community fairs, highlight Rayle’s strong sense of community and rural heritage, making it a cherished part of Wilkes County.

Danburg

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
  • Population: Approximately 150 (as of the 2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 30668 (Tignall)
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.8682° N, 82.6677° W

Location and History

Danburg is an unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Wilkes County, Georgia. The community was established in the early 19th century and was named after Daniel Walden, one of the area’s early settlers. Danburg has always been a small, rural community with a strong focus on agriculture, particularly cotton farming. The community’s history is closely tied to the development of the surrounding farmland, and it has maintained its rural character over the years. Despite its small size, Danburg has a rich history and a deep sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Danburg is served by the Wilkes County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Washington, including Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School. The community’s landmarks include the Danburg Baptist Church, which has been a central part of the community since its establishment in the 19th century. The area around Danburg is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills and farmland providing a picturesque setting. Outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing are popular among residents. Danburg’s rural charm, historical significance, and strong community values make it a unique and important part of Wilkes County.

Map of Cities in Wilkes County, GA

Map of Cities in Wilkes County, GA