Turner County, Georgia

I-75

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Turner County, Georgia is a county located in the southwestern part of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was approximately 8,930. The county seat is Ashburn, which is known for its historic buildings and as a hub for agriculture in the region. Turner County is part of the larger Albany, Georgia metropolitan area.

History

Turner County was established on August 18, 1905, from parts of Dooly, Irwin, Wilcox, and Worth counties. It was named in honor of Captain Henry Gray Turner, a veteran of the American Civil War and a prominent figure in Georgia's legal and political circles in the late 19th century.

Throughout its history, agriculture has been the backbone of Turner County's economy, with cotton, peanuts, and vegetables being the primary crops. The county has also played a significant role in Georgia's peanut industry.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, Turner County has a total area of 290 square miles, of which 285 square miles is land and 5 square miles (1.7%) is water. The county is characterized by its flat landscape, which is typical of the Coastal Plain region of Georgia.

Turner County is bordered by Crisp County to the north, Wilcox County and Ben Hill County to the east, Irwin County to the south, and Worth County to the west.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Turner County had a population of 8,930. The racial makeup of the county was predominantly African American and White, with a small percentage of other races. The economy of Turner County is largely based on agriculture, with peanuts, cotton, and vegetables being the main crops.

Government and politics

Turner County is governed by a Board of Commissioners, which consists of members elected from single-member districts. The county is part of Georgia's 8th congressional district for the purposes of federal elections.

Education

The Turner County School District serves the educational needs of the county's children. The district includes elementary, middle, and high schools. The county is also home to several private educational institutions.

Transportation

Major highways that run through Turner County include Interstate 75 (I-75), which provides access to major cities like Atlanta and Tampa, and U.S. Route 41. The county's transportation infrastructure supports its agricultural economy by facilitating the movement of goods to market.

Attractions

Turner County is home to several attractions, including the Georgia Peanut Festival in Ashburn, which celebrates the region's rich agricultural heritage. The county also offers outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hunting and fishing.

See also

• List of counties in Georgia
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Turner County, Georgia