History

Several notable persons spent time in Emanuel County. Nancy Morgan Hart and Stephen Heard, both heroes of the Revolutionary War, lived in Emanuel County. Hart (for whom the neighboring county is named) served as a spy for Elijah Clarke and once captured six Tories who came to her home demanding food. Heard established a fort in Georgia in 1773, fought with Elijah Clarke at the Battle of Kettle Creek, and served as President of the Executive Council of Georgia for a short period.

The Emanuel County Courthouse has been destroyed by fire five times: 1841, 1855, 1857, 1919, and 1938.

Swainsboro was named for Colonel Stephen Swain, a member of the state legislature. Its name was changed to Paris for a brief period, and then changed back to Swainsboro.

Points of Interest

The George L. Smith, II, State Park is in Emanuel County. It is best known for the newly refurbished Parrish Mill, a combination grist mill, saw mill, covered bridge and dam built in 1880. The park offers 11 miles of hiking trails, fishing, canoeing and boating.

Higher Education

East Georgia College and Swainsboro Technical Institute

Annual Events

The county hosts a number of annual festivals and events: the Pine Tree Festival, Garfield Washpot Cookout, both held in May, and the Agricultural Appreciation Day.

Swainsboro City Hall

Bone Yard, Swainsboro Pavillion