Phone: 912-652-7100
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Chatham County, located on the southeastern coast of Georgia, was established on February 5, 1777, as one of the original counties of the state, making it one of the oldest in Georgia. The county was named after William Pitt, the 1st Earl of Chatham, an advocate for the rights of the American colonies in Britain. Savannah, the oldest city in Georgia, serves as the county seat and has played a pivotal role in both state and national history.
The strategic importance of Savannah, with its prime location on the Savannah River, contributed significantly to Chatham County's early development and economic prosperity. The port city became a major hub for trade and commerce in the colonial era. During the American Revolution, Savannah was a key battle site, notably during the Siege of Savannah in 1779, one of the bloodiest battles of the revolution.
In the 19th century, Chatham County was markedly influenced by the antebellum period, characterized by a booming cotton industry reliant on slave labor. The county's economy thrived due to its agricultural output and strategic port, which facilitated extensive trade, especially in cotton. This period was abruptly disrupted by the Civil War, during which Savannah was famously captured by General William Tecumseh Sherman during his March to the Sea in 1864. This event marked a significant turn in the war, as Savannah was spared from destruction after its mayor surrendered, offering Sherman's troops local resources in exchange for peace.
Post-Civil War, Chatham County faced the challenges of Reconstruction and the integration of freed slaves into society. Throughout the 20th century, it evolved with the growth of industries and the expansion of the Port of Savannah, which remains one of the largest ports in the United States. The county has also been significant in civil rights history, with Savannah acting as a focal point for peaceful demonstrations and activism during the 1960s.
Today, Chatham County is known for its rich history, cultural significance, and as a vital economic center in the state of Georgia, reflecting a diverse and dynamic legacy that continues to evolve.