Henry County exudes a proud history as further evidenced by its many accomplishments over the years: from Commodore Thomas McDonough’s naval victory to Martin Luther King, Sr.’s birthplace and early preaching, to its world-reputed disc golf course and air route traffic control center, Henry County offers something of value from every citizen.
Henry County is an area of Georgia with a rich and proud history. It was the site of one of the largest cavalry raids in Georgia’s history and one of the largest battles in the Battle of Atlanta. The county consists of four cities: Stockbridge, McDonough, Hampton, and Locust Grove. McDonough was named after Commodore Thomas McDonough, whose victory on Lake Champlain during the War of 1812 was one of the most successful naval exploits in history. Stockbridge, Henry County’s northernmost city, was the birthplace of Martin Luther King, Sr., and it was here that he preached his first sermon. Moreover, the original Shane’s Rib Shack is located in McDonough. All of these facts demonstrate the proud heritage of Henry County and the many accomplishments of its people.
In keeping with this heritage of excellence, J.P. Moseley Park proudly hosts a championship-caliber disc golf course recognized by the Professional Disc Golf Association, providing an enjoyable experience to players of all skill levels. Rated as the highest in metro Atlanta, this 18-hole course is a testament to the quality and commitment to excellence that Henry County residents have always embraced.
Additionally, over 40 trains pass through Locust Grove daily, Stockbridge’s Eagle’s Landing Country Club was home to the LPGA for 15 years, and Mallards Landing, located in Locust Grove, is a fly-in community complete with personal hangers and a community runway. What’s more, the nation’s busiest en route air traffic control facility, Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center, is located in Hampton, GA, further showcasing the remarkable breadth of Henry County’s offerings.
Home to Many Well-known Brands
Henry County is home to many renowned brands, such as Ken’s Salad Dressing, Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce, Behr Paint, Curry & Echols Hot & Salty Pickles, and Shane’s Rib Shack BBQ Sauce, while also boasting De Wafelbakkers frozen pancakes. What’s more, the county’s cultural heritage is showcased in the original Georgia speakeasy located in Hampton, as well as the historic Unity Grove schoolhouse, one of the original Rosenwald schools established by Julius Rosenwald and Booker T. Washington. On top of this, Locust Grove is a regular stop for over 40 trains each day, Stockbridge is home to the Eagle’s Landing Country Club which was previously host to the LPGA for 15 years, and Mallards Landing is a fly-in community with its runway. Lastly, the nation’s busiest route air traffic control facility, Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center, is located in Hampton. With so much to offer, Henry County stands out as an impressive and proud destination.
Full of History Stores
W.D. Miller Store is an esteemed establishment in Henry County, boasting a rich history that dates back to the days of Jesse Johnson – great-grandfather of S. President Lyndon Baines Johnson – who was one of the first settlers and a successful farmer, sheriff (1822–1835), and judge. The store continues to provide its patrons with delicious homemade biscuits as well as hardware supplies. Furthermore, the county hosts the annual USA Spring Super NIT, a tournament widely considered to be the largest single-weekend amateur baseball tournament in the US, with up to 500 teams participating each year.
Also, Shingleroof Campground in McDonough has been the site of ecumenical “camp meetings” since the 1830s, beginning with the Second Great Awakening. These meetings are still held annually, and from 1861-1865 it served as the mustering ground and staging areas for Confederate troops. Additionally, there is a belief that the current Georgia State Flag may have had its roots in Henry County; a flag nearly identical to the one Georgia uses today, reading “Zachry Rangers Victory or Death” and on the opposite side “Presented by the Ladies of Henry”, is housed in the historical section of the State Capitol Building. Col. Charles T. Zachry, an officer during the Civil War and a Henry County State Representative, Senator, and county judge following the war, is thought to be the owner of this flag. There is much to be proud of in Henry County.
Numerous films and television programs have been filmed here, from classics such as Smokey and the Bandit and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire to more recent releases such as Logan Lucky, Krystal, and Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk. Additionally, there is a strong historical presence in the area, with the Shingleroof Campground and the Georgia State Flag.
From horseracing and disc golf to planes and trains, Henry County, Georgia has something for everyone. The proud towns of Stockbridge, McDonough, Hampton, and Locust Grove can all point to numerous websites centered around historic or noteworthy events and organizations, from Commodore Thomas McDonough during the War of 1812, to Martin Luther King, Sr., LPGA tournaments, airports, hangers, and even championship-level disc golf courses. No matter what interests one may have, it’s easy to find something to love in Henry County. With history, entertainment, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the field, county pride lives on the wonderfully diverse range of activities, sights, and historical significance of this vibrant community in northern Georgia.
