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Thomaston, the county seat of Upson County, is a community with deep historical roots and a reputation as one of central Georgia's most notable textile towns. Originally, the land was part of the territory inhabited by the Creek Indians. When the land was ceded to the state of Georgia in the early 19th century, settlers moved in to establish farms and homesteads. Thomaston was founded in 1825 and named after General Jett Thomas, a War of 1812 officer who oversaw the construction of the University of Georgia's first building.

The town's early economy revolved around agriculture. Cotton flourished in the red clay soil of Upson County, and farmers relied on enslaved labor before the Civil War to make their plantations productive. After emancipation, cotton remained central, with sharecropping and tenant farming dominating the rural economy. The arrival of textile mills in the late 19th and early 20th centuries transformed Thomaston's economic landscape. Factories such as Martha Mills and Thomaston Mills provided employment and made the city one of the South's textile manufacturing centers.

Transportation reinforced Thomaston's role as a thriving small city. The arrival of railroads gave farmers and mill operators access to broader markets, while new roads and eventually U.S. highways strengthened connections to Macon, Columbus, and Atlanta. Infrastructure continued to evolve with the development of state routes and regional highways, ensuring that Thomaston remained well linked despite being a rural county seat.

Community life in Thomaston has long revolved around a blend of industry and tradition. The textile industry fostered a sense of identity, as generations of families worked in the mills. Churches, schools, and civic organizations played vital roles in shaping the city's social and cultural life. Events such as community festivals and athletic competitions reflected the town's strong spirit. Even during the decline of the textile industry in the late 20th century, Thomaston adapted by diversifying its economy and preserving its traditions.

Today, Thomaston remains a proud community with a strong balance of history and modern appeal. The presence of historic homes, the courthouse square, and landmarks from its textile past highlight its heritage. Residents enjoy small-town amenities while benefiting from proximity to larger cities. Thomaston is recognized as a family-oriented, welcoming city with a resilient economy, scenic surroundings, and a commitment to preserving its identity as a historic Georgia community.