History

Lanier County, the 155th county formed in Georgia, was created in 1920. The county was named in honor of Georgia state poet, Sidney Lanier.

Lakeland, the county seat, is Lanier County's only incorporated municipality. Originally called Mill Town, Lakeland received its current name in 1925 in honor of its proximity to several lakes including Grand Bay Lake, Lake Irma and Banks Lake.

Points of Interest

For many years, Lakeland owned and operated its own railroad.

The county is famous for its excellent fishing in the Alapaha River, as well as in its many small lakes. Banks Lake Wildlife Refuge, which includes a 3,900-acre lake, is located in the county.

Lanier shares Moody Air Force Base with Lowndes County on its western boundary.

Notable Citizens

One notable person from Lanier County was Eurith Dickinson "Ed" Rivers, a Georgia governor and speaker of the Georgia House. He was a strong proponent of the "New Deal" and an outspoken opponent of Eugene Talmadge.

Annual Events

One festival held in the county is the Flatlanders Frolic Arts and Crafts Show. This event features bluegrass music, a road race and various other Labor Day weekend events.

Also held in Lanier County is the Living Murals Celebration held in the Spring.

Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Downtown Mural