Elbert County, Georgia

Elbert County Georgia Courthouse

Elbert County, Georgia is a county located in the northeastern part of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 19,194. The county seat is Elberton, known as the "Granite Capital of the World" due to its vast granite deposits. Elbert County is part of the Athens-Clarke County, GA Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Elbert County was established on December 10, 1790, from parts of Wilkes County. It was named in honor of Samuel Elbert, a patriot and revolutionary war hero, who served as a general in the Continental Army and later as the governor of Georgia. The county has a rich history, with numerous sites dating back to the early Native American inhabitants, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 374 square miles, of which 351 square miles is land and 23 square miles (6.1%) is water. The northern part of Elbert County, bordered by the Savannah River, is part of the Piedmont region, which is characterized by its rolling hills. The county is also home to part of the Richard B. Russell Lake, a popular recreational area.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the population of Elbert County was 19,194. The demographic makeup of the county has varied over the years, with a significant portion of the population being of African American descent, reflecting the county's history of agriculture and plantation economy.

Economy

Elbert County's economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of cotton, soybeans, and corn. In recent decades, the granite industry has become a significant part of the local economy, with Elberton being recognized as a major center for granite quarrying and monument manufacturing. The county also benefits from tourism, especially related to outdoor activities such as fishing and boating on the Richard B. Russell Lake, and historical sites.

Education

The Elbert County School District serves the educational needs of the county's children. The district includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Elbert County Comprehensive High School. There are also private educational options available within the county.

Government

Elbert County is governed by a Board of Commissioners, which consists of a chairman and four commissioners. The county is part of the 10th Congressional District of Georgia, and also contributes to the state's legislative districts.

Culture and Recreation

Elbert County offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. The Elbert Theatre, Granite Bowl, and the annual Granite City Fall Festival are among the local attractions. The county's natural landscapes, including its portion of the Savannah River and Richard B. Russell Lake, provide opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, and boating.

Notable People

Several notable individuals hail from Elbert County, including politicians, athletes, and artists. These figures have contributed to the county's rich cultural heritage and have made significant impacts both locally and nationally.