History of Appling County, Georgia

Appling County, located in southeastern Georgia, is a region with deep roots in the early history of the United States. Originally inhabited by the Creek Nation and Cherokee tribes, the land that would become Appling County was later settled by European colonists in the late 1700s. The county was established in 1818, and it was named after Col. Daniel Appling, a hero of the War of 1812. Over time, Appling County became known for its agricultural development, particularly in timber and agriculture, contributing to Georgia’s economy. Today, Appling County offers a mix of historical significance and rural charm, attracting visitors interested in exploring the history of Georgia and the legacy of the region.

Origins and Early History

Native American Inhabitants

Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Appling County was home to the Creek and Cherokee tribes. These tribes had long lived in the southeastern United States, developing sophisticated agricultural and trading cultures. The Creeks, in particular, were known for their agricultural practices, including the cultivation of corn, beans, and squash, which were the basis of their diet. The Cherokee lived primarily in the mountainous regions to the north but also had influence over the land that would later become Appling County.

The Creeks and Cherokee maintained complex social structures and strong trade networks, often exchanging goods with European settlers and other tribes. In the early 1800s, however, pressure from the U.S. government and encroaching settlers led to the forced relocation of these tribes during the period of Indian Removal. This forced migration became known as the Trail of Tears, and it had a profound impact on the indigenous people of Georgia, including those in the Appling County area.

Settlement and Formation of Appling County

The settlement of Appling County began in earnest following the Creek War of 1813-1814, which resulted in the Creek ceding large swaths of land in Georgia to the United States. The lands that would form Appling County were part of the Western lands opened to white settlement, and by the early 1800s, settlers were moving into the area. These settlers were largely of European descent, including Anglo-Americans and a number of Scots-Irish immigrants who had previously settled in other parts of the South.

In 1818, the Georgia legislature created Appling County, naming it after Col. Daniel Appling, a Georgia native who fought bravely in the War of 1812 and was recognized for his military leadership. The county was initially part of the larger Wayne County, and it was designed to help encourage further settlement in Georgia’s coastal plain and pine forests.

The county was originally settled around small farming communities, and its residents made their livelihoods primarily through agriculture. Cotton, tobacco, and rice were major crops in the early years, as Georgia’s fertile lands attracted plantation farming and agricultural enterprises.

Key Historical Events

The Civil War and Appling County

Like much of the South, Appling County was deeply impacted by the events leading up to and during the Civil War. In the early 1860s, Georgia was a slave-holding state, and many of the county’s residents supported the Confederacy. While Appling County was rural and not as industrialized as the northern states, its role in the war was significant due to its agricultural resources and the role it played in supplying Confederate troops with food, timber, and other supplies.

During the war, the county saw military action on the fringes, though it was not a major battlefield. Nevertheless, the Civil War had long-lasting effects on Appling County, including disruptions to agriculture and the labor system. Following the war, the county’s economy struggled to recover, as Reconstruction and the abolition of slavery created new challenges for the agricultural community.

Post-Civil War and Economic Recovery

Following the Civil War, Appling County, like many southern counties, struggled with economic hardship and political instability. The end of slavery meant that the county’s economy had to shift away from its reliance on enslaved labor, and this forced transition to sharecropping and tenant farming was a difficult adjustment for many landowners.

Despite these challenges, the county began to slowly rebuild in the late 1800s. The economic recovery in Appling County came in large part due to the expansion of the timber industry and the increasing demand for Georgia’s natural resources. With an abundance of forests and timber, many of the county’s residents turned to logging as a primary source of income, leading to the development of a new economic base in the area.

During this period, railroads began to be constructed throughout Georgia, including parts of Appling County. These railroads connected the county with larger cities, such as Savannah and Augusta, and facilitated the transportation of goods, including timber, cotton, and other crops, to broader markets.

20th Century to Present

In the 20th century, Appling County continued to develop as a rural agricultural community. Although cotton remained an important crop, the county’s economy diversified, with forestry, peanut farming, and livestock becoming increasingly important. Today, the county remains a largely agricultural area, though it has shifted away from traditional farming toward more specialized agriculture and timber production.

Key Historical Sites

Appling County Courthouse

Overview
The Appling County Courthouse, located in Baxley, is an important historical landmark in the region. Built in 1908, the courthouse is a fine example of early 20th-century Beaux-Arts architecture. The building features a classical design with columns, large windows, and a prominent clock tower. It is the heart of the county’s civic activities and has hosted many significant events over the years, including trials, governmental meetings, and local celebrations.

Location
Appling County Courthouse, 163 S Main St, Baxley, Georgia.

Ticket Price
Free to the public.

Parking Information
Free parking is available in front of the courthouse and around the downtown area.

Baxley City Park

Overview
Baxley City Park is a community park that commemorates the history and culture of Appling County. The park features a variety of amenities, including walking trails, a war memorial, and a historic marker dedicated to the county’s role during the Civil War and early settlement. It is a popular destination for local events, including picnics, festivals, and family gatherings.

Location
Baxley City Park, 3800-3812 S Main St, Baxley, Georgia.

Ticket Price
Free to the public.

Parking Information
Parking is free and available on-site.

Appling County Historical Society Museum

Overview
The Appling County Historical Society Museum offers a deep dive into the history of the county and its people. Exhibits feature artifacts from the Native American tribes that once lived in the area, as well as displays related to the Civil War, the development of the timber industry, and the agricultural history of the county. The museum also hosts community events, educational programs, and lectures.

Location
Appling County Historical Society Museum, 1015 4th St, Baxley, Georgia.

Ticket Price
Free to the public, though donations are accepted.

Parking Information
Parking is available behind the museum.

County Facts

Geography and Climate

Appling County is located in the southeastern part of Georgia, bordered by Jeff Davis County to the north, Wayne County to the east, and Coffee County to the west. The county covers an area of approximately 507 square miles, most of which is flat or gently rolling terrain. The Altamaha River, one of Georgia’s major rivers, runs along the county’s eastern edge, providing fertile land for agriculture.

The climate in Appling County is humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 85°F to 95°F, while winter temperatures generally stay above 40°F. The region experiences occasional rainfall, particularly during the spring and summer months, which supports its agricultural activities.

Key County Facts

• Year Founded: 1818
• County Seat: Baxley
• Population: Approximately 18,000
• Population Density: 35 people per square mile
• Largest Cities: Baxley, Surrency, Graham
• Major Highways: U.S. Highway 1, Georgia State Route 15, Georgia State Route 27
• Adjacent Counties:
  • To the north: Jeff Davis County
  • To the east: Wayne County
  • To the south: Pierce County
  • To the west: Coffee County