Hamilton County

Surrounded by rivers on three sides and the Georgia state line on the other, Hamilton County forms a cape of its own within the greater peninsula of Florida. First settled around 1825 by Daniel Bell, the rural area has remained true to its roots--agriculture is still the mainstay of the land. The population of the area began very small and gradually grew to almost 12,000 citizens with three main cities in the county: Jasper, Jennings, and White Springs, all of which have seen their heyday as large business-oriented communities. Focusing on the history and heritage of the communities brings forth the memories and traditions of a time long gone, and it is through preservation of those long-lost moments that it is possible to promote cultural growth.

Author Marsanne Petty, a lifetime resident of Hamilton County, is heavily involved in the research and preservation of Hamilton County history. Throughout Images of America: Hamilton County, she exhibits her passion and dedication for her subjects while attempting to portray the county as honestly as possible. Many of the photographs were contributed by various members of the community. Other images come from the author's personal collection and from the Florida State Archives.