Phone: 912-876-3389
Tax Due Date(s): February 20
Notes:
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Liberty County, Georgia, was established in 1777 as one of Georgia’s original counties, named in recognition of patriotism during the American Revolution. Settled in the 1750s by Puritans from Dorchester, South Carolina, these early settlers brought with them strong principles of liberty, religious freedom, and self-governance. These values played a vital role in shaping the county’s identity and were a driving force behind its prominent role in the independence movement.
The county was home to several influential figures in the American Revolution, including Button Gwinnett and Lyman Hall, both of whom signed the Declaration of Independence. The county’s residents provided significant support to the war effort, contributing both men and resources.
After the Revolution, Liberty County continued to grow, with agriculture as its primary economic driver. The county’s fertile land proved ideal for rice, cotton, and indigo plantations, which relied heavily on enslaved labor until the Civil War. The county’s population, therefore, had a large enslaved African American community, which significantly influenced its demographics and culture.
During the Civil War, Liberty County was impacted by Union General William T. Sherman’s March to the Sea, which saw the destruction of infrastructure and disruption of plantation economies. Post-war, the county’s agricultural economy struggled but began to diversify in the early 20th century, incorporating timber and naval stores.
The 1940s brought significant changes with the establishment of the U.S. Army’s Fort Stewart, which expanded the local economy, population, and infrastructure. Today, Liberty County reflects a blend of its historic roots and modern developments, with Fort Stewart remaining central to its economy. The county honors its legacy of liberty and independence while adapting to growth and change, maintaining a balance between preserving history and embracing the future.