Burke County, Georgia

Burke County, Georgia

General Information
Name	Burke County, Georgia
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	County
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates
Map
Population
Total	24,596
Density	per km²
Area
Total	km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC-5
DST	UTC-4

Burke County is a county located in the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 24,596. The county seat is Waynesboro.

History

Burke County was created on February 5, 1777, as one of the original counties of Georgia. It was named after Edmund Burke, a member of the British Parliament who was sympathetic to the American colonies. The county has a rich history, with its roots deeply embedded in the early development of Georgia.

During the American Revolutionary War, Burke County was a site of significant military activity. The county's strategic location made it a focal point for both British and American forces.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 835 square miles (2,160 km²), of which 827 square miles (2,140 km²) is land and 8 square miles (21 km²) (1.0%) is water.

The county is part of the Central Savannah River Area, and it is bordered by the Savannah River to the east. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills and fertile farmland, making it an important agricultural region.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 24,596 people, 8,500 households, and 6,000 families residing in the county. The population density was 30 people per square mile (12/km²).

The racial makeup of the county was diverse, with a significant African American population, along with White, Hispanic, and other racial groups.

Economy

The economy of Burke County is largely based on agriculture, with major crops including cotton, peanuts, and soybeans. The county is also home to the Plant Vogtle nuclear power plant, which is a significant source of employment and economic activity.

Education

Burke County is served by the Burke County School District, which provides public education from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Burke County High School.

Transportation

Major highways in Burke County include U.S. Route 25 and Georgia State Route 56. These roads provide vital connections to nearby cities and regions.

Communities

• Waynesboro (county seat)
• Sardis
• Midville
• Girard

Notable People

• Edmund Burke - Although not a resident, the county is named in his honor.

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Burke County, Georgia

External links

• Official Burke County Website