History

History at a Glance

"In point of intelligence, refinement, and hospitality, this town acknowledges no superior." ~ White's Statistics of Georgia, 1849

Historic Seat of Government

Established in 1809, Madison is the seat and the largest town in Morgan County. The early town flourished as a stagecoach stop and an in-town residence for planters' families. Principal streets were patriotically named for presidents and the community prided itself on its schools, literary, and philosophical societies. For the most part, Madison's antebellum architecture survived because Mayor Joshua Hill, a strong Unionist who had resigned his Congressional seat in 1861 to return to Georgia, developed an gentlemen's agreement with General Sherman's detachment. Turn-of-the-century prosperity added a large number of commercial and residential buildings that were Victorian in style. Twentieth century development, formerly insensitive and sprawl-oriented, is now guided to respect the local sense of place and style. Madison values what many communities have lost - an identity and historic integrity.

Today's Vibrant Downtown

Madison retains its small-town character and remains the heart of the community. Downtown Madison is punctuated by a central town square and anchored by historic government facilities, such as City Hall, the Morgan County Courthouse, and U.S. Post Office. The Madison-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, located on the square, has a great vantage point to view the bustling retail, professional, and service businesses. The surrounding environs are still primarily rural in character with a thriving agrarian economy which is supplemented by an increasing tourism dollar. Smart growth planning ensures that Madison will continue to serve as a charming home for its residents and as a delightful destination for tourists.