Exploring the History and Culture of Richmond County, Georgia

Richmond County is located in the east-central part of Georgia, situated along the Savannah River. With a population of over 200000 residents, it is the third most populous county in Georgia. The county seat and largest city is Augusta known for hosting the prestigious Masters Tournament golf championship each year. Though an urban center today, Richmond County has a long and storied history since its founding in 1777. Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating Georgia county.

A Brief History of Richmond County

Richmond County was established on February 5, 1777, making it one of Georgia’s original counties formed after the American Revolution. It was named for Charles Lennox, the 3rd Duke of Richmond, who was a supporter of the American colonies during the Revolutionary War The land that became Richmond County was originally part of the colonial Parish of St. Paul

When first founded Richmond County’s borders were massive originally stretching from the Savannah River to the Mississippi River. Over the subsequent decades, Richmond County’s boundaries were reduced as new counties were formed. By 1796 the county was reduced close to its present-day borders.

The city of Augusta, which became Richmond County’s seat of government, was established in 1735 and was one of the earliest European settlements in inland Georgia. It was named after Princess Augusta of Saxe-Gotha, the mother of King George III of England. Augusta grew as a trading post and commercial center, even serving briefly as the state capital of Georgia in the late 1700s.

For a long time, cotton and tobacco farming, which used slave labor, were Richmond County’s main sources of income. The Augusta Canal, which was finished in 1845, helped Augusta become more industrialized by providing water power and better ways to move goods. The Confederate Powderworks were in Augusta during the Civil War. They were a major source of gunpowder and other weapons for the Southern armies.

After the Civil War, Richmond County went through a lot of social and political changes. Freed slaves got more rights and started to take political power. During and after Reconstruction, Augusta became a hub for African American culture and wealth. Today, Richmond County is majority African American in population.

As Augusta continued to grow into a regional economic hub, the governments of Augusta and Richmond County consolidated in 1996 for greater efficiency. So Augusta and Richmond County governments effectively operate as one today.

Geographic Features of Richmond County

Richmond County covers 329 square miles in east-central Georgia. It is bordered by the Savannah River along its eastern edge, separating Georgia from South Carolina.

The Ogeechee River flows along part of Richmond County’s southern border. Other major bodies of water include Spirit Creek, Butler Creek, Rocky Creek, and Raes Creek. The Augusta Canal helps divert water from the Savannah River to provide hydroelectric power in Augusta.

The terrain of Richmond County consists of hills, plateaus, and bottomlands. Much of the upland areas are covered in mixed pine and hardwood forests. Swampy areas and marshes can be found along some waterways. The lowest elevation is approximately 120 feet above sea level along the Savannah River.

The climate is humid subtropical, with short, mild winters and long, hot, humid summers. Richmond County gets over 46 inches of rainfall annually on average. The weather is ideal for growing crops like cotton, tobacco, and peaches.

Demographics and Culture of Richmond County

As of the 2020 census, Richmond County had an estimated population of 206,607 residents. The population density is over 600 people per square mile on average. However, population is concentrated in Augusta and immediate suburban areas.

• 54.7% of the population is African American
• 33.1% is white
• 5.5% is Hispanic/Latino
• Remaining 7% are other races or multiracial

Augusta is the cultural hub of Richmond County. As a city of around 200,000 people, Augusta offers extensive shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment options. Some key attractions include:

• Augusta Museum of History
• Morris Museum of Art
• Lake Olmstead Stadium
• James Brown Arena
• Augusta National Golf Club
• Sacred Heart Cultural Center
• Diamond Lakes Regional Park

The Augusta area is also home to Fort Gordon, a major U.S. Army training base that employs thousands of civilians and military personnel. Nearby is the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence.

Besides golf, Augustans are passionate about sports like basketball, football, bowling, boating and fishing. The Augusta Greenjackets minor league baseball team has many loyal fans. Music is integral to Augusta’s culture, as the birthplace of James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul.” Augusta hosts major events like the Lake Olmstead Stadium antique show, Arts in the Heart festival, and Westobou Festival.

The cuisine of Richmond County is quintessential Southern fare like fried chicken, cornbread, collard greens, and pecan pie. Some local favorites include the “Scrambled Dawg” at the Georgia-Carolina State Fair and grapefruit cake from the Blue Willow Inn restaurant in Social Circle.

Richmond County’s economy relies on sectors like healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, technology, and financial services. Major employers include Fort Gordon, Augusta University Medical Center, Richmond County School System, and Textron Specialized Vehicles. The county has a strong medical sector with providers like Augusta University Health.

Things to Do in Richmond County

From historical sites to outdoor recreation, Richmond County offers many attractions and activities:

• Explore Augusta Canal National Heritage Area
• See famous Magnolia trees at Augusta National
• Tour the Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson
• Check out funky local shops and eateries in Downtown Augusta
• Catch a show at the historic Imperial Theatre
• Play golf at Forest Hills Golf Club or Jones Creek Golf Club
• Pedal along Augusta Canal Bike Trail or Canal Walk
• Go kayaking, fishing or boating at Clarks Hill Lake
• Learn about military history at Fort Gordon Museum
• Visit the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art gallery
• Shop for antiques and vintage wares in areas like Olde Town

Final Thoughts on Richmond County

With its rich history, diverse culture, and many attractions, Richmond County has something to offer almost any traveler. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of parks and waterways, while arts and architecture buffs will find treasures in Augusta. Foodies will enjoy the Southern flavors of local restaurants, and history lovers can step back in time at sites like the Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson. Whether you are in town for a sporting event or just passing through, Richmond County has plenty of sights to explore off the beaten path.