History
Short Synopsis
Ware County is a county located in the southeastern part of the state of Georgia, United States. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Creek and the Seminole, before European settlers arrived.
In the late 1700s, Georgia officials designated this region as part of the Appling District, which was organized to govern the territory between the Ocmulgee and St. Marys rivers. The county was officially created on December 15, 1824, and was named in honor of Nicholas Ware, a United States Senator from Georgia.
During the 19th century, Ware County became an important center of agriculture and transportation. The establishment of railroads and the creation of the Atlantic and Gulf Railroad in the 1860s helped to stimulate economic growth in the area. The county was also an important source of lumber, and the timber industry played a significant role in the local economy for many years.
In the early 20th century, Ware County began to diversify its economy, with the growth of new industries such as textiles and manufacturing. Today, the county's economy is driven by a mix of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and retail.
Throughout its history, Ware County has played an important role in the development of Georgia and the southeastern United States. Today, it is home to a diverse and growing population, with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community.
Area
Four additional counties were cut from portions of Ware County. With just over 900 square miles of land, Ware remains the largest county in Georgia.
- Clinch County, was formed as the 94th Georgia county, on February 14, 1850 from portions of Ware and Lowndes Counties.
- Coffee County was formed on February 9, 1854, as the 107th Georgia county from portions of Ware, Clinch, Irwin and Telfair Counties.
- Pierce County was formed as the 119th Georgia county on December 18, 1857 from portions of Appling and Ware Counties.
- Bacon County was formed as the 149th Georgia county on July 27, 1917 from portions of Ware, Pierce and Appling Counties.
- Waycross
- Blackshear
- Manor
- Waresboro
- Sunnyside
- Deenwood
- Millwood
- Dixie Union
- Otter Creek
- Racepond
- Ruskin
- Bristol
- Bickley
Local Area
The largest city and county seat of Ware County is Waycross. Other cities and communities in the county include:
These communities vary in size and population, with Waycross being the largest city and center of commerce and industry in the county.
Links of Interest
The Naming of Waycross
Where The Ways Cross By Robert Latimer Hurst
Ware County History Miscellany
Early Businesses of Ware County
The Political Graveyard Ware County, Georgia
Off Site Links to Georgia History
Civilian Conservation Corps
Civilian Conservation Corps Museum James F. Justin ~ offsite
Certificates of Discharge from CCC Camp 1401 for WILLIAM HARNAGE
American Heritage Organizations
Georgia Chapter Locator NS Daughters of the American Revolution
Lyman Hall NSDAR Waycross, Georgia
Some History on Dr. Lyman Hall
DR. LYMAN HALL BROUGHT A PURITAN VIEW TO GEORGIA'S COASTAL POLITICS By Robert Latimer Hurst
Southern Heritage Organizations
SCV Camp #64, Clement A. Evans, Waycross, GA Commander: BEN JUDGE SMITH JR Address: PO BOX 1586 WAYCROSS, GA 31502
Adjutant: BOYKIN CLARKE Address: PO BOX 1787 WAYCROSS, GA 31502
County Government
George W. Waldron, 1856 Document Certifying him as Tax Receiver for Ware Co
Interesting Historical Notations
1st Babies of WaycrossRailroad History
And the Tracks Were Laid By Robert Latimer Hurst
White Feather Flyin' By Robert Latimer Hurst
The Great Locomotive Race of 1901 By John B. Gordon