Newborn
Formerly part of Baldwin, Jasper counties
Settlement began after the 1807 Land Lottery. R. Fretwell, W. Burge, J. Hartwell & S. Gay moved to the area c. 1809. A log church was built for the Methodist in 1820. Bufus Broome, Nestorr & John W. Pitts settled with the idea of developing the town. Sandtown (Newborn) became a hub of trade, education and medical care. Newborn Academy / Palmyra Institute was established 1837. John W. Pitts, a Union sympathizer is credited with saving the town from Sherman´s torch by entertaining the General on 11/19/1864. The arrival of the middle Ga. & Atlantic R.R. in 1893 gave a boost to the economy were cotton dominated until after World War II.
Placed By Landmark Committee
Newton County Historical Site 12 April 30, 1996
Plaque courtesy Lat34North.com.
Original page, with additional info, here.
Photo credit: Byron Hooks of Lat34North.com.