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The area that would become Pendergrass was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples who relied on the streams and fertile soils of northeast Georgia for survival. Jackson County, where Pendergrass is located, was created in 1796 from part of Franklin County and quickly attracted settlers moving inland from the Savannah River basin. These early families established small farms, churches, and communities, carving out a livelihood from the rolling hills and wooded landscapes of the Piedmont. The community was named for J.B. Pendergrass, a prominent local physician and civic leader who played a role in the development of the town in the late 19th century.

Agriculture was the foundation of Pendergrass's early economy. Corn, cotton, and livestock were central to farm operations, with local markets providing opportunities for trade. Like many Jackson County towns, Pendergrass benefited from its location near farming crossroads, where goods could be exchanged and communities grew around churches and general stores. The arrival of the Gainesville Midland Railroad in the late 1800s greatly boosted the town's growth, connecting local farmers and merchants to larger markets and encouraging small-scale industrial activity.

As transportation routes developed, Pendergrass became more accessible. The growth of regional highways in the 20th century brought change, particularly the construction of U.S. Highway 129, which runs through the town. This road provided direct access to Gainesville and Athens, helping Pendergrass transition from a quiet farming settlement to a community tied to broader economic development in northeast Georgia. In recent decades, the proximity to Interstate 85 has further connected Pendergrass to the Atlanta metropolitan region, spurring commercial growth and suburban expansion.

Pendergrass has retained a small-town identity while also adapting to growth pressures. Community life revolves around schools, churches, and annual events that celebrate local traditions. The demographics of the town have become more diverse over time, reflecting the wider growth of Jackson County and its appeal to families seeking affordable housing and access to job markets in Athens and Atlanta. Pendergrass is also known for the Pendergrass Flea Market, one of the largest in the Southeast, which draws visitors from across the region and serves as both an economic and cultural landmark.

Today, Pendergrass offers a blend of rural charm and suburban accessibility. Residents enjoy open spaces, family-oriented neighborhoods, and a relaxed pace of life while being within reach of major employment centers. Its location along key transportation routes has encouraged continued investment, while its historic roots provide a sense of continuity. Pendergrass remains an appealing place for families, retirees, and businesses seeking a balance between tradition and progress.