Walker County, Georgia

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Walker County, Georgia is a county located in the northwestern part of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 69,761. The county seat is LaFayette. Walker County is part of the Chattanooga, TN-GA Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Walker County was created on December 18, 1833, from land formerly belonging to the Cherokee County and named after Major Freeman Walker, a U.S. Senator from Augusta, Georgia. The county played a significant role during the Civil War, with several skirmishes and battles taking place in the area. In the post-war era, Walker County's economy transitioned from an agrarian base to a more diversified one, including manufacturing and services.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 447 square miles, of which 446 square miles is land and 1.2 square miles (0.3%) is water. The county is primarily in the Lookout Mountain range and is home to part of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. The northern part of Walker County is part of the Tennessee River watershed, while the southern part drains into the Coosa River basin.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 69,761 people, 26,562 households, and 18,438 families residing in the county. The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with significant African American, Hispanic or Latino, and Asian populations. The median income for a household in the county was around $44,064, with a poverty rate of approximately 15.3%.

Government and politics

Walker County operates under a sole commissioner government, one of the few counties in Georgia to do so. The commissioner is elected countywide and is responsible for legislative and executive functions. The county has a history of leaning towards the Republican Party in national elections.

Economy

The economy of Walker County is diverse, with sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail playing significant roles. The county is home to several industrial parks and is served by the Walker County School District, which is one of the largest employers in the area.

Education

Walker County School District serves the educational needs of the county's children and young adults. The district includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. Higher education is accessible through nearby institutions such as Dalton State College and Chattanooga State Community College.

Transportation

Major highways running through Walker County include U.S. Route 27, which provides north-south access, and Georgia State Route 136, which runs east-west. The county is also near Interstate 75, facilitating travel to Atlanta and Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Recreation

Walker County offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and fishing in its parks and natural areas. The Lula Lake Land Trust and Cloudland Canyon State Park are notable destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.

Notable people

Several notable individuals hail from Walker County, including Gordon Lee, a U.S. Congressman, and Melvin E. Thompson, the 71st Governor of Georgia.