Cities & Towns in Dougherty County, GA
Dougherty County, county in Georgia, United States. As of 2020 county had an estimated population of 86,477 inhabitants. The county was created 170 years ago in 1853. Its county seat is Albany.
There are 2 city/town in Dougherty County, GA. The largest city of Dougherty County is Albany with a population of 70,839. Other cities include and Putney population 2,898
Albany
Albany, The capital of Georgia.
Putney
Putney, Census-designated place in Dougherty County, Georgia
Located in southwest Georgia, Dougherty County is home to several small cities and towns. Here is an overview of some of the notable municipalities in Dougherty County:
Albany is the largest city in Dougherty County and serves as the county seat. Initially founded in 1836 as a trading post along the Flint River, Albany was officially established in 1853 and named after the capital of New York. With a population of around 75,000 residents, Albany is the regional hub for southwest Georgia and is known for its rich African American history and culture. Major landmarks include Albany State University, the Ray Charles Plaza, and the Albany Civil Rights Institute.
Putney is a small unincorporated town located southeast of Albany near the Flint River. It was founded by Dr. Willis Putney in the 1890s. Putney had its own post office and general store for many years. While the town is small, with likely less than 100 residents, Putney has a distinct history as a prosperous rural trading village in the early 20th century.
Preston
Preston is situated northeast of Albany, originally settled as a farming community in the 1850s. It was officially incorporated in 1938. Preston saw steady growth through the mid-1900s as a cotton production center with the establishment of mills and cotton gins. While the population today is under 500 residents, Preston retains its small-town atmosphere and southern charm. Points of interest include the Pickle History House museum and the Whistlestop Cafe, made famous by the movie Fried Green Tomatoes.
Smithville
Smithville is another small unincorporated town east of Albany near the Lee County border. It dates back to the 1800s as a farming settlement named after settler Matthew Smith and his wife. Smithville was home to a thriving sawmill industry in its early days. The population likely does not surpass 100 residents today, but the community maintains its identity and rural roots.
In summary, while Albany dominates as the population and economic center, Dougherty County is dotted with smaller villages and towns that each have their own unique history and character. From early trading posts to cotton gins and sawmills, these municipalities reflect the region's agrarian heritage and development over time. Though small, they serve as important local centers with distinctive southern charm.
All Dougherty County Cities (Aphebetical)
List of cities, towns, neighborhoods & other populated places in Dougherty County.
| City Name | Title | Population |
|---|---|---|
| Albany | The capital of Georgia. | 70,839 |
| Putney | Census-designated place in Dougherty County, Georgia | 2,898 |
