Eatonton was founded in 1808, and quickly became a center for education, culture, and banking. A great number of imposing residents were erected during the decade leading up to the Civil War. Thankfully, Sherman spared these dwellings on his March to the Sea.
Eatonton experienced difficulty recovering from the war, until Benjamin Hunt established the dairy industry in Putnam County, which soon became the Dairy Capitol of Georgia.
Today, classic antebellum architecture can be seen from every corner of the tree-lined streets of historic Eatonton. A Historic Walking Guide points out some of the most beautiful and unique houses among over 100 Greek Revival, Victorian, Queen Anne, Piedmont Plain, and Gothic Revival homes in the city and county.
Putnam County is a wonderland for architecture buffs, sports enthusiasts, adventure seekers, antique collectors, and luxury lovers. Eatonton is brimming with Antebellum structures, rich literary history, mom and pop shops, local eateries, and the sweetest tea in the South. The county itself is surrounded by 2 lakes and a National Forest. beaches, hiking trails, and water sport rentals make Putnam County a tourist destination for all.
Accommodations in Eatonton are as diverse as the community itself. Whether you are looking for a rustic river cabin, a peaceful campground, a quaint B&B, or an upscale lakeside resort hotel, Putnam County has something for everyone.
With family owned antique stores and boutiques around every corner of the square, downtown Eatonton has something to offer every shopper. Frilli Frocks has unique finds for young ladies, while Maggie Lane offers cute clothing for all shapes and sizes. Find local art pieces for sale at the Artisan’s Village Art Gallery.
Lake Oconee is surrounded by chic shopping; the Harmony Crossing Shopping Center offers guests exclusive clothing, eye-catching home décor and a calming pedicure! Some favorites include: 44 Marketplace, Christine’s Jewelry, & Camille and Co. Surrounding the large center are solitary stores, including home appliances, sewing supplies, technology repairs and consignment clothing.
In Eatonton, food brings people together. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, residents are gathered at the tables of local restaurants enjoying some homemade sweet tea and a variation of delicacies.
The lake community offers an assortment of restaurants including those that specialize in American, Asian, Italian, and Mexican cuisines.
