History

Banks County was created in 1858 from parts of Franklin and Habersham counties. It was named for Dr. Richard E. Banks, a circuit-riding physician who treated the settlers and Native Americans of northern Georgia and South Carolina.

The first county courthouse was completed in 1863. It was constructed of hand-made bricks in the Greek Revival style. It is on the National Register of Historical Places and now serves as a museum and office space.

Homer, the county's only municipality, was incorporated in 1859 and was named after Homer Jackson, a prominent settler.

Points of Interest

The northern boundary of Banks County is the Chattahoochee National Forest and much of the county is woodlands.

Banks County is the home of the World's Largest Easter Egg Hunt (according to the Guinness Book of World Records ) hosted by Garrison Farms.

Notable Citizens

Although Royston, in Franklin County, was Ty Cobb's birthplace, Banks County also lays claim to having the famous ballplayer as a resident. In 1936, Ty Cobb became the first baseball player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Annual Events

For over 110 years, the Sunday School Celebration, honoring Banks County's churches, has been held each July.

Ragsdale Mill

Drag racing at Atlanta Dragway