Welcome to Downtown Hogansville, a charming town in Georgia with a rich history rooted in industry and community. Hogansville was established as a thriving hub for cotton farming and textile production, evolving over time to embrace new technologies and innovations.
Our journey begins in the late 19th century when the town’s economy was largely driven by cotton, a crucial crop for local farmers and merchants like Frank Word. Word played a pivotal role by building a cotton warehouse near the railroad, allowing farmers to reach broader markets. In 1899, Hogansville Manufacturing Company was established with northern investors, producing cotton duck and later, cotton cord for the automotive industry. This was a period of growth and change, as Hogansville became an important player in the textile industry.
By the 1920s, the town had seen ownership of its mills pass through various hands, including New England Southern Mills and Callaway Mills, before becoming part of U.S. Rubber during World War II. These mills were central to the community, providing employment and shaping Hogansville’s economic landscape. Although the original Reid Mill was demolished in the 1960s, the legacy of the textile industry lives on through the Stark Mill, now operated by Westech.
Today, Hogansville is embracing the future with a cutting-edge smart city initiative led by LG CNS. This project includes the installation of smart poles throughout downtown and city parks, integrating street lighting with advanced IoT technology to enhance public safety and connectivity. These smart poles are equipped with features like public Wi-Fi, CCTV, and environmental sensors, supporting real-time monitoring and data collection. The initiative also includes electric vehicle chargers and emergency call buttons, paving the way for a safer and more connected urban environment.
As you explore Hogansville, you’ll also come across the Historic Train Depot. Built over 120 years ago, it stands as a testament to the town’s vibrant past, where farmers once shipped their goods to Atlanta. Today, it serves as a unique venue for weddings and events, blending nostalgia with modern-day celebrations.
From its cotton roots to its innovative strides in smart city technology, Hogansville is a town that honors its past while looking towards the future. Enjoy your visit and discover the stories that have shaped this community!
