|
|
Eatonton, Georgia Built: 1905-06 Architectural Style: Neoclassical Revival This courthouse rests on one of the largest public squares in Georgia. The oldest portion of the building was built in 1824, but was extensively remodeled adding square brick columns and a beautiful clock tower in 1906. County History: Putnam County was created from Baldwin County on December 10, 1807, by an act of the General Assembly (Ga. Laws 1807, p.3). Its name honors General Israel Putnam, a hero of the Revolutionary War (1775-83) and a veteran of the battles at Lexington and Breed’s (Bunker) Hill. The Civil War (1861-65) visited Putnam County in 1864, when Union General William T. Sherman and his army passed through the area on the March to the Sea, burning cotton gins and destroying railroads and bridges. County Seat: Eatonton – Named for William Eaton, soldier, diplomat, and undercover agent, the town was incorporated in 1809 and remains the sole incorporated city in Putnam County. Noted authors Joel Chandler Harris (Uncle Remus Tales) and Alice Walker (The color Purple) were born in Eatonton, and their stories continue their popularity to this day. Photo courtesy of Brent Lanford, Middle Georgia Regional Development Center. |
