History

Burke County was one of Georgia's original eight counties. Originally organized as the Parish of St. George, Burke County was named for English political writer, member of the British Parliament and supporter of the colonies' interests, Edmond Burke.

Known as the "Bird Dog Capital of the World," Waynesboro was named for General Anthony "Mad Anthony" Wayne, a famous Revolutionary soldier.

Points of Interest

Georgia Power Company's Alvin W. Vogtle Nuclear Power Plant is located in the county on the Savannah River and began operation in the late 1980s.

Notable Citizens

Burke County claims ten Georgia Governors by birth, residence, or marriage. Lyman Hall, Georgia signer of the Declaration of Independence and member of the Continental Congress, had a plantation in the county. The other nine Governors with Burke County ties are John Houston, Samuel Elbert, Edward Telfair, Jared Irwin, James Jackson, David Emanuel, William Schley, Herschel V. Johnson and Hoke Smith.

Annual Events

Burke County is home of numerous festivals and special events. The Georgia Field Trials is one of the nation's oldest hunting dog competitions. The Redbreast Festival, celebrates the Ogeechee River's unique variety of red breasted bream. Other events include the Cotton Country Festival, the Tour of Homes and Christmas on Liberty Square.

Burke County Museum, Waynesboro

Vogtle Nuclear Power Plant