History of Barrow County

An Historical Perspective

On July 7, 1914, Barrow County was formed by an act of the Georgia Legislature. The act provided for 168 square miles to be taken from parts of Gwinnett, Walton and Jackson Counties. It is named for David Crenshaw Barrow, a former chancellor of the University of Georgia who lived until 1929. Barrow is one of the youngest counties in the State of Georgia.

The 2010 census showed a population in Barrow County at 70,169. This represents a growth rate of over 50% for the past ten years.  Barrow County’s growth has consistently ranked in the Top 5 fastest growing counties in the State, and one of the Top 20 fastest growing counties in the US.

Barrow County’s relatively small size still holds six communities.  The county seat is the City of Winder.  Named for railroad man John Winder, who helped bring prosperity with the rail lines to the former Jug Tavern, Winder has grown from a former mill town, once known as “The Work Clothing Capital of the World” to a bustling community with and old-town feel, and new-community looks.

The City of Auburn located in Barrow County’s western end, Auburn has been a growing town welcoming to new residents – especially those looking for more land, more space, and more house, as they gravitate away from the Metro Atlanta area.

The City of Statham, located on Barrow County’s eastern side, sits in an advantageous location, as it is close to the City of Athens, with the University of Georgia, and all the advantages it offers, while still keeping an arm’s length away.  Industrial equipment manufacturer Catapillar sits less than 10 miles from Statham.  Even closer is The Georgia Club, a live-work-play community offering a varied set of amenities for the discriminating homeowner.

The fast-growing Town ofBraselton lies within four counties, including Barrow.  The iconic Chateau Élan Winery, Resort and Conference Center is the centerpiece for Braselton inside of Barrow County, as it presents innumerable activities for residents and visitors alike.  Interstate 85 bisects Braselton, allowing for easy transportation access to Atlanta, Charlotte, and beyond.

The Town of Bethlehem fills with visitors every year, as they bring Christmas cards to the Bethlehem Post Office, to be hand-stamped and mailed the world over.  Bethlehem also offers a variety of housing options, and its location close to Ga. Hwy. 316 allows for quick access towards both Athens and Atlanta.

The Town of Carl, sitting adjacent to the City of Auburn features the beautiful Carl House, a Antebellum home turned into a showplace that’s perfect for weddings, receptions, and parties.

Links to Barrow County municipalities:

Barrow County Historical Society

Barrow County Museum Facebook