History

Newton County was created in 1821 from parts of Henry, Jasper and Walton counties. Georgia's 53rd county is named for Revolutionary War hero, John Newton.

The Newton County Courthouse was built in 1884.

Orna Villa, an elegant home in Oxford, is believed to be haunted by the spirit of Dr. Alexander Means who bought the house in the 1830s. Others believe it is the ghost of his son Tobe who makes the strange sounds and footsteps that are often heard.

Points of Interest

Gold mining was important in the county during the late nineteenth century. However, there are no active mines today.

Covington has been known as the Hollywood of the South due to the number of movies and television shows filmed there. In the Heat of the Night , a long running television show, spent its eight years in Covington while filming. The Dukes of Hazards was another prime time show that began its television series in the county.

Annual Events

Candlelight Christmas Tour of Homes and Mainstreet in May

Newton County Courthouse, Covington

Dixie Manor, Covington