Bartow County, Georgia is a small but historically rich county located in the northwestern part of the state. With a population of just over 100,000, it may not seem like a significant area, but its history tells a different story. From Native American settlements to the Civil War and beyond, Bartow County has played a crucial role in shaping the state of Georgia. And one of the most significant factors in its development was the introduction of railroads.
The Early Days of Bartow County
Before the arrival of European settlers, Bartow County was home to various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Creek nations.In 1832, the Treaty of New Echota was signed, forcing the Cherokee people to leave their land and relocate to present-day Oklahoma. This event is known as the Trail of Tears and had a devastating impact on the Native American population in Bartow County. After the Cherokee were forced out, white settlers began to move into the area. In 1832, Cass County was established, named after General Lewis Cass. However, in 1861, during the Civil War, the county was renamed Bartow in honor of Francis S.
Bartow, a Confederate politician and soldier who died in battle.
The Arrival of Railroads
In the mid-1800s, railroads were rapidly expanding across the United States. The state of Georgia recognized the potential economic benefits of having a railroad system and began to invest in its development. In 1833, construction began on the Western and Atlantic Railroad (W&A), which would eventually run from Atlanta to Chattanooga. The W&A Railroad played a crucial role in connecting Bartow County to the rest of the state. In 1845, the town of Cartersville was established as a depot for the W&A Railroad, and it quickly became a hub for trade and commerce.The railroad also brought an influx of new residents to the area, leading to the growth and development of other towns in Bartow County, such as Adairsville and Kingston. With the arrival of railroads, Bartow County became a major transportation hub, connecting Georgia to other states and allowing for the transportation of goods and people. This led to a significant increase in economic activity and helped to establish Bartow County as an important region in Georgia.
The Civil War and Beyond
During the Civil War, Bartow County played a significant role in the Confederate States of America. The county was home to several Confederate training camps, including Camp McDonald, which trained over 17,000 soldiers. The W&A Railroad also played a crucial role in supplying Confederate troops with weapons and supplies. After the war, Bartow County continued to thrive thanks to its railroad connections.In 1870, the Etowah Iron Works was established in Cartersville, producing iron for the railroad industry. This led to further economic growth and development in the county.
The Impact on Bartow County Today
Today, railroads still play a significant role in Bartow County's economy. The W&A Railroad is now owned by CSX Transportation and continues to operate as a major freight line. The county is also home to several other railroads, including Norfolk Southern and Georgia Northeastern Railroad.The railroad industry has also had a lasting impact on the county's infrastructure.Many of Bartow County's roads were built along old railroad lines, making transportation more efficient and accessible. Furthermore, the railroad industry has also influenced the county's culture and identity. The town of Adairsville, for example, is known as the "Railroad City" due to its rich railroad history. The Adairsville Rail Depot, built in 1847, is now a museum that showcases the town's railroad heritage.
In Conclusion
The arrival of railroads in Bartow County had a significant impact on its development. It connected the county to the rest of the state and allowed for the transportation of goods and people, leading to economic growth and development.Today, the railroad industry continues to play a crucial role in Bartow County's economy and has left a lasting impact on its culture and identity.
