Name derivation:Named in honor of John Glynn, a member of the House of Commons that supported John Wilkes (an outspoken proponent of American self-rule). Following Wilkes conviction on libel charges, Glynn formed the Bill of Rights Society to promote the causes that Wilkes held dear.
Acquisition: Creek land cessions of Nov. 10, 1763 and Nov. 12, 1785. Previously had been part of the parishes of St. David and St. Patrick
Taken from: Original county
Counties created from: None
Cities: Brunswick (county seat), St. Simon's

Web sites:
National Register of Historic Places in Glynn County, Georgia
Glynn County, Georgia, links


History and description
One of Georgia's original counties, Glynn was named for John Glynn, who was a supporter of the American colonies. The island of St. Simon, which is the eastern border of the county was the southern end of the colony of Georgia when James Oglethorpe founded Fort Frederica and Fort St. Simons. Frederica served as the General's home towards the end of his stay in Georgia.

In 1765 the parishes of St. David and St. Patrick were created, which included present-day Glynn County. These had little political meaning - they were mostly for military and religious organization. Glynn became home to many large plantations before the Civil War. Although the war bypassed the county, the effects were felt for years after. The end of the plantation system brought an economic downturn that was felt for 10 years. Finally, in the 1880's a travel industry began to develop, supporting both the lumber and depressed agricultural businesses. In 1896 a hurricane destroyed many of the coastal communities.

Glynn County is located on the southeast Georgia coast, and is bordered by the Altamaha River on the north and the Little Satilla River on the south.