History

Schley County was created in 1857 from parts of Marion and Sumter counties. Georgia's 122nd county was named for Georgia Governor William Schley. The name of the county is pronounced "sly."

Built in 1899, the county courthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places. The clock tower, once known as the "Leaning Tower of Ellaville," was straightened and reinforced in 1991.

The city of Ellaville was named for Ella Burton, the daughter of the man who sold the land for the town site.

Points of Interest

The City of Ellaville's water system is one of only two in the state which use duckweed as a natural water filter instead of chemicals.

Annual Events

Each April the residents of Schley County host a "Homecoming" weekend to welcome back people who have moved from the community. At Christmas, the courthouse, water tower, and some store fronts are outlined in lights and can be seen by passers-by on U.S. 19. "Candy Cane Lane," a small residential area, also attracts visitors with elaborate Christmas decorations.

Peanuts are part of the local economy

Schley County Courthouse, Ellaville