Introduction to Barnesville, Georgia
Barnesville, Georgia, in Lamar county, is 33 miles NW of Macon, Georgia (center to center) and 49 miles S of Atlanta, Georgia.
Barnesville History
Creek Indians were the original inhabitants of the area, but The Land Lottery of 1821 opened the area for white settlement. An Indian fighter, Jenks, is responsible for the first establishment in 1825. A year later, he sold it to Gideon Barnes, who built a log cabin, an inn, and a tavern. The area's first office was also established by him on June 28, 1827. Initially known as "Barnes' Store," this post office was renamed "Barnesville" in June, 1831. The city of Barnesville was incorporated on February 20, 1854. During the late 19th century, the city produced nearly 16,000 buggies a year, earning it the nickname "Buggy Capital of the World."
Barnesville and Nearby Attractions
- Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site
- Old Jail Museum
- Ocmulgee National Monument
- Sprewell Bluff State Park
- Museum of Arts and Sciences
- Hay House Museum
Things To Do In Barnesville
The city of Barnesville offers easy access to numerous museums and historical sites such as the Ocmulgee National Monument, Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site, Sidney Lanier Cottage, Georgia Children's Museum, Georgia Music Hall of Fame, and the Museum of Arts and Sciences. The Tubman African-American Museum houses artifacts and memorabilia related to African-American art, history, and culture of the region. The Atlanta Farmers Market is another popular attraction. The 528-acre Indian Springs State Park includes a beach, a lake, cottages, camp grounds, and picnic areas. At the Sprewell Bluff State Park, and High Falls State Park, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Barnesville Transportation
Air transportation is available from the William B Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport.
Barnesville Higher Education
Gordon College is located in the city of Barnesville. Mercer University, and Macon State College are also close by.
