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Coordinates: 30°37′N 85°40′W / 30.61°N 85.67°W / 30.61; -85.67
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{{short description|County in Florida, United States}}
{{For|counties with a similar name|Washington County (disambiguation)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2024}}
{{Infobox U.S. County
{{Infobox U.S. county
| county = Washington County
| county = Washington County
| state = Florida
| state = Florida
| seal = Seal of Washington County, Florida.png
| seal = Seal of Washington County, Florida.png
| seal size = 150px
| seal size = 100px
| founded year = 1825
| founded year = 1825
| founded date = December 9
| founded date = December 9
Line 13: Line 14:
| area_water_sq_mi = 33
| area_water_sq_mi = 33
| area percentage = 5.4%
| area percentage = 5.4%
| census estimate yr = 2015
| census yr = 2020
| pop = 24,687
| pop = 25318
| density_sq_mi = 43
| pop_est_as_of = 2023
| population_est = 25602 {{gain}}
| density_sq_mi = auto
| web = www.washingtonfl.com
| web = www.washingtonfl.com
| ex image = FLA Washington Cty Crths02.jpg
| ex image = FLA Washington Cty Crths02.jpg
Line 21: Line 24:
| district = 2nd
| district = 2nd
| time zone = Central
| time zone = Central
| named for = [[George Washington]]
| named for = [[George Washington]] }}
}}


'''Washington County''' is a [[County (United States)|county]] located in the [[U.S. state|state]] of [[Florida]]. As of the [[2010 United States Census|2010 census]], the population was 24,935.<ref name="QF">{{cite web|title=State & County QuickFacts|url=http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/12/12133.html|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=June 16, 2014}}</ref> Its [[county seat]] is [[Chipley, Florida|Chipley]].<ref name="GR6">{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|accessdate=2011-06-07|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties}}</ref> Washington County is a prohibition or entirely [[dry county]], meaning that the sale of [[alcoholic beverages]] is banned in the county.
'''Washington County''' is a [[County (United States)|county]] located in the northwestern part of the [[U.S. state]] of [[Florida]], in the [[Florida Panhandle|Panhandle]]. As of the [[2020 United States census|2020 census]], the population was 25,318.<ref name="QF">{{cite web|title=State & County QuickFacts|url=http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/12/12133.html|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=June 16, 2014}}</ref> Its [[county seat]] is [[Chipley, Florida|Chipley]].<ref name="GR6">{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|access-date=June 7, 2011|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties}}</ref> Washington County is included in the [[Panama City, Florida|Panama City]]—[[Panama City Beach, Florida]] [[Panama City, Florida metropolitan area|Metropolitan Statistical Area]].


==History==
==History==
[[File:FLA Washington Cty Crths01.jpg|thumb|left|[[Washington County Courthouse (Florida)|Washington County Courthouse]] in [[Chipley, Florida|Chipley]]]]
[[File:FLA Washington Cty Crths01.jpg|thumb|left|[[Washington County Courthouse (Florida)|Washington County Courthouse]] in [[Chipley, Florida|Chipley]]]]
Washington County, Florida was created in 1825, and was nearly twice the size of the State of Delaware, stretching all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. After a century of boundary shifts, the county, with over {{convert|382000|acre|km2|0}} of rolling hills covered in thick, stately pines and mixed hardwood forests, now covers a large portion of the central Florida Panhandle.


Washington County was created in 1825, and was nearly twice the size of the State of Delaware, stretching all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. After a century of boundary shifts, the county, with over {{convert|382000|acre|km2|0}} of rolling hills covered in thick, stately pines and mixed hardwood forests, now covers a large portion of the central Florida Panhandle.
Over a span of more than 150 years, Washington County has seen Native American, Spanish and English cultural influences. The County's historical lore is rich with stories of the exploits of Andrew Jackson. There are numerous Native American Mounds and evidence of strong settlements still being discovered.

Over a span of more than 150 years, Washington County has seen Native American, Spanish and English cultural influences. The county's historical lore is rich with stories of the exploits of Andrew Jackson. There are numerous Native American mounds and evidence of strong settlements still being discovered.

Named after [[George Washington]],<ref>{{cite book|title=Publications of the Florida Historical Society|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WZQ-AAAAYAAJ&pg=RA2-PA35|year=1908|publisher=Florida Historical Society|page=35}}</ref> the first [[President of the United States of America|US president]], the area was first settled by those seeking both economic and political freedom in this frontier land of vast timber and mineral resources. Inland waterway transportation brought about heavy river settlements. The arrival of railroads in the late 1800s boosted economic, social and political developments.


Vernon, the geographical center of the county, is named for George Washington's Virginia home, Mt. Vernon. The pioneer town was also the site of a major Indian settlement.
Named after [[George Washington]],<ref>{{cite book|title=Publications of the Florida Historical Society|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WZQ-AAAAYAAJ&pg=RA2-PA35|year=1908|publisher=Florida Historical Society|page=35}}</ref> the first [[President of the United States of America]], the area was first settled by those seeking both economic and political freedom in this frontier land of vast timber and mineral resources. Inland waterway transportation brought about heavy river settlements. The arrival of railroads in the late 1800s boosted economic, social and political developments.


The county courthouse was located in Vernon during the early part of this century, until a railroad town in northeastern Washington County, Chipley, became the new and present county seat in 1927.
Vernon, the geographical center of the county derives is named for George Washington's Virginia home, Mt. Vernon. The pioneer town was also the site of a major Indian settlement.


Washington County was once a [[dry county]], meaning that the sale of [[alcoholic beverages]] was banned in the county. In January 2022, this restriction was removed following a voter referendum in which about two-thirds of voters supported the removal.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Wood |first1=Tristan |title=Washington County residents vote to end 'dry' law, allow hard liquor |url=https://floridapolitics.com/archives/489037-washington-county-residents-vote-to-end-dry-law-allow-hard-liquor/ |website=Florida Politics |publisher=Extensive-Enterprises |access-date=May 31, 2022 |date=January 23, 2022}}</ref>
The county courthouse was located in Vernon during the early part of this century until a railroad town in northeastern Washington County, Chipley, became the new and present county seat in 1927.


==Geography==
==Geography==
According to the [[U.S. Census Bureau]], the county has a total area of {{convert|616|sqmi}}, of which {{convert|583|sqmi}} is land and {{convert|33|sqmi}} (5.4%) is water.<ref name="GR1">{{cite web|url=http://www.census.gov/geo/www/gazetteer/gazette.html|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|accessdate=2011-04-23|date=2011-02-12|title=US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990}}</ref>
According to the [[U.S. Census Bureau]], the county has a total area of {{convert|616|sqmi}}, of which {{convert|583|sqmi}} is land and {{convert|33|sqmi}} (5.4%) is water.<ref name="GR1">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/geographies/reference-files/time-series/geo/gazetteer-files.html|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=April 23, 2011|date=February 12, 2011|title=US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990}}</ref>


The county became part of the [[Panama City metropolitan area]] in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 21, 2023 |title=Revised Delineations of Metropolitan Statistical Areas, Micropolitan Statistical Areas, and Guidance on the Uses of the Delineations of These Areas |url=https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/OMB-Bulletin-23-01.pdf |access-date=July 27, 2023 |website=Executive Office of the President |page=66}}</ref>
===Adjacent Counties===

*[[Holmes County, Florida]] - north

*[[Jackson County, Florida]] - northeast
===Adjacent counties===
*[[Bay County, Florida]] - south
*[[Walton County, Florida]] - west
* [[Holmes County, Florida]] - north
* [[Jackson County, Florida]] - northeast
* [[Bay County, Florida]] - south
* [[Walton County, Florida]] - west


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
{{US Census population
{{US Census population
|1830= 978
|1840= 859
|1840= 859
|1850= 1950
|1850= 1950
Line 67: Line 76:
|2000= 20973
|2000= 20973
|2010= 24896
|2010= 24896
|estyear=2015
|estimate=24687
|estref=<ref name="USCensusEst2015">{{cite web|url=http://www.census.gov/popest/data/counties/totals/2015/CO-EST2015-alldata.html|title=County Totals Dataset: Population, Population Change and Estimated Components of Population Change: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2015|accessdate=July 2, 2016}}</ref>
|align-fn=center
|align-fn=center
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.census.gov/prod/www/decennial.html|title=U.S. Decennial Census|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=June 16, 2014}}</ref><br />1790-1960<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mapserver.lib.virginia.edu|title=Historical Census Browser|publisher=University of Virginia Library|accessdate=June 16, 2014}}</ref> 1900-1990<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.census.gov/population/cencounts/fl190090.txt|title=Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=June 16, 2014}}</ref><br />1990-2000<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf|title=Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=June 16, 2014}}</ref> 2010-2015<ref name="QF" />
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=U.S. Decennial Census|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=June 16, 2014}}</ref><br />1790-1960<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mapserver.lib.virginia.edu|title=Historical Census Browser|publisher=University of Virginia Library|access-date=June 16, 2014}}</ref> 1900-1990<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/cencounts/fl190090.txt|title=Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=June 16, 2014}}</ref><br />1990-2000<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf|title=Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=June 16, 2014}}</ref> 2010-2015<ref name="QF" /> 2019<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/FL/PST045218|title=QuickFacts. Florida counties|access-date=May 20, 2020}}</ref>
|2020=25318
}}
|estyear=2023
|estimate=25602
|estref=<ref name="USCensusEst2023">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/data/tables.html|title=Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Counties: April 1, 2020 to July 1, 2023|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=March 31, 2024}}</ref>}}


{| class="wikitable"
As of the [[census]]<ref name="GR8">{{cite web|url=http://factfinder2.census.gov|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|accessdate=2011-05-14|title=American FactFinder}}</ref> of 2000, there were 20,973 people, 7,931 households, and 5,646 families residing in the county. The [[population density]] was {{convert|36|PD/sqmi|/km2}}. There were 9,503 housing units at an average density of 16 per square&nbsp;mile (6/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 81.72% [[Race (United States Census)|White]], 13.69% [[Race (United States Census)|Black]] or [[Race (United States Census)|African American]], 1.54% [[Race (United States Census)|Native American]], 0.36% [[Race (United States Census)|Asian]], 0.06% [[Race (United States Census)|Pacific Islander]], 0.58% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 2.05% from two or more races. 2.30% of the population were [[Race (United States Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Race (United States Census)|Latino]] of any race.
|+'''Washington County racial composition as of 2020'''<br> (NH = Non-Hispanic){{efn|Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos can be of any race.<ref>https://www.census.gov/ {{nonspecific|date=August 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=About the Hispanic Population and its Origin |url=https://www.census.gov/topics/population/hispanic-origin/about.html |website=www.census.gov |access-date=May 18, 2022}}</ref>}}
!Race
!Pop 2010<ref>{{Cite web |title=Explore Census Data |url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/table?g=0500000US12133&tid=DECENNIALPL2010.P2 |access-date=May 27, 2022 |website=data.census.gov}}</ref>
!Pop 2020<ref>{{Cite web |title=Explore Census Data |url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/table?g=0500000US12133&tid=DECENNIALPL2020.P2 |access-date=May 27, 2022 |website=data.census.gov}}</ref>
!% 2010
!% 2020
|-
|[[Non-Hispanic or Latino whites|White]] (NH)
|19,551
|19,484
|78.53%
|76.96%
|-
|[[Non-Hispanic or Latino African Americans|Black or African American]] (NH)
|3,698
|3,236
|14.85%
|12.78%
|-
|[[Native Americans in the United States|Native American]] or [[Alaska Native]] (NH)
|296
|222
|1.19%
|0.88%
|-
|[[Asian Americans|Asian]] (NH)
|131
|132
|0.53%
|0.52%
|-
|[[Pacific Islander Americans|Pacific Islander]] (NH)
|15
|28
|0.06%
|0.11%
|-
|Some other race (NH)
|14
|87
|0.06%
|0.34%
|-
|[[Multiracial Americans|Mixed/multi-racial]] (NH)
|458
|1,205
|1.84%
|4.76%
|-
|[[Hispanic and Latino Americans|Hispanic or Latino]]
|733
|924
|2.94%
|3.65%
|-
|'''Total'''
|'''24,896'''
|'''25,318'''
|'''100.00%'''
|'''100.00%'''
|}
As of the [[2020 United States census]], there were 25,318 people, 9,037 households, and 5,945 families residing in the county.


As of the [[census]]<ref name="GR8">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=May 14, 2011|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref> of 2000, there were 20,973 people, 7,931 households, and 5,646 families residing in the county. The [[population density]] was {{convert|36|PD/sqmi|/km2}}. There were 9,503 housing units at an average density of 16 per square&nbsp;mile (6/km<sup>2</sup>). The racial makeup of the county was 81.72% [[Race (United States Census)|White]], 13.69% [[Race (United States Census)|Black]] or [[Race (United States Census)|African American]], 1.54% [[Race (United States Census)|Native American]], 0.36% [[Race (United States Census)|Asian]], 0.06% [[Race (United States Census)|Pacific Islander]], 0.58% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 2.05% from two or more races. 2.30% of the population were [[Race (United States Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Race (United States Census)|Latino]] of any race.
There were 7,931 households out of which 30.30% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.20% were [[Marriage|married couples]] living together, 11.40% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.80% were non-families. 25.10% of all households were made up of individuals and 12.00% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.93.


In the county, the population was spread out with 23.40% under the age of 18, 7.70% from 18 to 24, 28.50% from 25 to 44, 24.70% from 45 to 64, and 15.70% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females there were 105.80 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.90 males.
There were 7,931 households, out of which 30.30% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.20% were [[Marriage|married couples]] living together, 11.40% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.80% were non-families. 25.10% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.00% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the county, the population was spread out, with 23.40% under the age of 18, 7.70% from 18 to 24, 28.50% from 25 to 44, 24.70% from 45 to 64, and 15.70% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females there were 105.80 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.90 males.


The median income for a household in the county was $27,922, and the median income for a family was $33,057. Males had a median income of $26,597 versus $20,198 for females. The [[per capita income]] for the county was $14,980. About 15.40% of families and 19.20% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 26.90% of those under age 18 and 19.40% of those age 65 or over.
The median income for a household in the county was $27,922, and the median income for a family was $33,057. Males had a median income of $26,597 versus $20,198 for females. The [[per capita income]] for the county was $14,980. About 15.40% of families and 19.20% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 26.90% of those under age 18 and 19.40% of those age 65 or over.
Line 84: Line 157:
==Education==
==Education==
The Washington County School District includes:<ref name=District>{{Cite web
The Washington County School District includes:<ref name=District>{{Cite web
| title = Schools
|title = Schools
| url = http://wcsb.paec.org/schools.htm
|url = http://wcsb.paec.org/schools.htm
| author = District, Washington County School
|author = District, Washington County School
|access-date = May 26, 2009
| accessdate = 2009-05-26
|url-status = dead
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090514114909/http://wcsb.paec.org/schools.htm
|archive-date = May 14, 2009
}}</ref>
}}</ref>
*Kate Smith Elementary School
* Kate Smith Elementary School
*Vernon Elementary School
* Vernon Elementary School
*Roulhac Middle School
* Roulhac Middle School
*Vernon Middle School
* Vernon Middle School
*[[Chipley High School]]
* [[Chipley High School]]
*[[Vernon High School (Vernon, Florida)]]
* [[Vernon High School (Vernon, Florida)|Vernon High School]]


It is the sole school district in the county.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st12_fl/schooldistrict_maps/c12133_washington/DC20SD_C12133.pdf|title=2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Washington County, FL|publisher=[[U.S. Census Bureau]]|access-date=2024-07-19}} - [https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st12_fl/schooldistrict_maps/c12133_washington/DC20SD_C12133_SD2MS.txt Text list]</ref>
===Libraries===
The Washington County Public Library system has three branches. Washington County is also a part of the [http://pplcs.net/ Panhandle Public Library Cooperative System]. The PPLC also includes [[Holmes County, Florida|Holmes]], [[Jackson County, Florida|Jackson]], and [[Calhoun County, Florida|Calhoun]] counties.


*Sam Mitchell Public Library
===Washington Public Library System===
*Wausau Public Library
Washington County Public Library system has four branches:
*Sunny Hills Public Library
* [[Washington County Public Library]] (Chipley Library)
* Sam Mitchell Public Library
* Wausau Public Library
* Sunny Hills Public Library


==Media==
==Media==
* [http://www.chipleypaper.com The Washington County News]
* ''The Washington County News''<ref>[http://www.chipleypaper.com ''The Washington County News'']</ref>
* [http://www.VernonFlorida.com The Investigator OnLine Newspaper]
* ''Foster Folly News''<ref>[http://www.fosterfollynews.com ''Foster Folly News'']</ref>
* [http://www.fosterfollynews.com Foster Folly News]
* ''The Chipley Bugle''<ref>[http://www.chipleybugle.com ''The Chipley Bugle'']</ref>
* [http://www.chipleybugle.com The Chipley Bugle]


==Communities==
==Communities==
[[File:Washington County Florida Sign FL79 at Ebro looking northward.jpg|thumb|The Washington County sign at [[Ebro, Florida]] on [[Florida State Road 79]].]]
[[File:Washington County Florida Sign FL79 at Ebro looking northward.jpg|thumb|The Washington County sign at [[Ebro, Florida]] on [[Florida State Road 79]]]]

===Cities===
===Cities===
*[[Chipley, Florida|Chipley]]
* [[Chipley, Florida|Chipley]]
*[[Vernon, Florida|Vernon]]
* [[Vernon, Florida|Vernon]]


===Towns===
===Towns===
*[[Caryville, Florida|Caryville]]
* [[Caryville, Florida|Caryville]]
*[[Ebro, Florida|Ebro]]
* [[Ebro, Florida|Ebro]]
*[[Wausau, Florida|Wausau]]
* [[Wausau, Florida|Wausau]]


===Unincorporated communities===
===Unincorporated communities===
*Crow
* Crow
*[[Five Points, Washington County, Florida|Five Points]]
* [[Five Points, Washington County, Florida|Five Points]]
*Gilberts Mill
* Gilberts Mill
*[[Greenhead, Florida|Greenhead]]
* [[Greenhead, Florida|Greenhead]]
*Hinson's Crossroads
* Hinson's Crossroads
*[[Holmes Valley, Florida|Holmes Valley]]
* [[Holmes Valley, Florida|Holmes Valley]]
*[[New Hope, Florida|New Hope]]
* [[New Hope, Florida|New Hope]]
*Poplar Head
* Poplar Head
*[[Red Head, Florida|Red Head]]
* [[Red Head, Florida|Red Head]]
*[[Sunny Hills, Florida|Sunny Hills]]
* [[Sunny Hills, Florida|Sunny Hills]]

==Transportation==

===Airports===
* Washington County is served by [[Tri-County Airport (Florida)|Tri-County Airport]], a general aviation airport 5.3 miles northwest of central Chipley. It has a 5398-foot runway, passenger terminal and two instrument approaches. Washington County appoints three of the nine-member board of directors which governs the airport.

===Major highways===
{{See also|List of county roads in Washington County, Florida}}
* {{jct|I|10|state=FL}} (Interstate 10) <!--is the main west-to-east interstate highway in the county, and runs along northern Washington County. It contains two interchanges within the county; CR 279 (Exit 104) south of Caryville, then momentarily passes in and out of Holmes County encountering SR 77 (Exit 120), in Chipley.-->
* {{jct|US|90|state=FL}} (U.S. Highway 90) <!--was the main west-to-east highway in the county, until it was surpassed by I-10.-->
* {{jct|FL|20|state=FL}}
* {{jct|FL|77|state=FL}} <!-- is a south-to-north highway-->
* {{jct|FL|79|state=FL}} <!-- is a south-to-north highway-->
* {{jct|FL|273|state=FL}}
* {{jct|FL|277|state=FL}}


<!--===Railroads===
Washington County has one railroad line. The primary one is the [[Florida Gulf and Atlantic Railroad]], a former [[CSX Transportation|CSX]] line previously owned by the [[Louisville and Nashville Railroad]] that served [[Amtrak]]'s [[Sunset Limited]] and was later designated as the [[Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad|P&A Subdivision]]. This service formerly went to [[New Orleans]], but in 2005 service was truncated by the extensive damage in the Gulf area due to [[Hurricane Katrina]]. The line runs parallel to US 90 along the north side passing in and out of the county twice. Another former L&N line existed within the northeastern corner of the county. The Georgiana Branch entered the state and county from [[Caryville, Florida]] then ran through [[Vernon, Florida|Vernon]] and later [[Eleanor, Florida|Eleanor]] before crossing SR 2 and leaving the county towards [[Graceville, Florida|Graceville]] and [[Campbellton, Florida|Campbellton]], where it had a junction with the [[Bay Line Railroad]]. were abandoned after restructuring of the railroad industry in the mid to late 20th century. -->

==Politics==
{{PresHead|place=Washington County, Florida|whig=no|source1=<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://uselectionatlas.org/RESULTS/|title=Dave Leip's Atlas of U.S. Presidential Elections|last=Leip|first=David|website=uselectionatlas.org|access-date=June 16, 2018}}</ref>}}
<!-- PresRow should be {{PresRow|Year|Winning party|GOP/Whig vote #|Dem vote #|3rd party vote #|State}} -->
{{PresRow|2024|Republican|10,370|2,140|115|Florida}}
{{PresRow|2020|Republican|9,876|2,347|112|Florida}}
{{PresRow|2016|Republican|8,637|2,264|310|Florida}}
{{PresRow|2012|Republican|8,038|2,820|184|Florida}}
{{PresRow|2008|Republican|8,178|2,863|126|Florida}}
{{PresRow|2004|Republican|7,369|2,912|85|Florida}}
{{PresRow|2000|Republican|4,995|2,798|233|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1996|Republican|3,524|2,992|1,345|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1992|Republican|3,695|2,544|1,632|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1988|Republican|4,374|2,144|46|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1984|Republican|4,608|1,916|1|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1980|Republican|3,251|3,110|152|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1976|Democratic|2,313|3,566|117|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1972|Republican|3,777|606|3|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1968|American Independent|528|722|3,682|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1964|Republican|2,725|1,500|0|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1960|Democratic|1,230|2,098|0|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1956|Democratic|1,027|2,164|0|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1952|Democratic|1,100|2,263|0|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1948|Democratic|297|1,380|534|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1944|Democratic|507|1,699|0|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1940|Democratic|643|1,915|0|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1936|Democratic|486|2,289|0|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1932|Democratic|345|2,424|0|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1928|Republican|1,672|671|55|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1924|Democratic|206|562|64|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1920|Democratic|307|750|153|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1916|Democratic|159|626|218|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1912|Democratic|82|694|302|Florida}}
{{PresRow|1908|Democratic|288|652|229|Florida}}
{{PresFoot|1904|Democratic|202|414|160|Florida}}


==See also==
==See also==
* ''[[Buckley v. Haddock]]'' (2008)
*[[Dry counties]] Washington is a partially dry county. Alcohol cannot be bought or sold on Sunday within the city limits of Chipley. Vernon, Ebro and Wausau are excluded from this ordinance.
* [[National Register of Historic Places listings in Washington County, Florida]]
* [[National Register of Historic Places listings in Washington County, Florida]]

==Notes==
{{notelist}}


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}
https://www.wjhg.com/2022/01/22/washington-county-dry-no-more/


==External links==
==External links==
* ''[http://ufdc.ufl.edu/UF00028312 Washington County News]'' newspaper that serves Washington County, Florida available in full-text with images in [http://ufdc.ufl.edu/fdnl1 Florida Digital Newspaper Library]
* ''[http://ufdc.ufl.edu/UF00028312 Washington County News]'' - newspaper that serves Washington County, Florida available in full-text with images in [http://ufdc.ufl.edu/fdnl1 Florida Digital Newspaper Library]
* ''[http://ufdc.ufl.edu/UF00075891 Chipley Banner]'' newspaper that served Washington County, Florida from 1897-1900 available in full-text with images in [http://ufdc.ufl.edu/fdnl1 Florida Digital Newspaper Library]
* ''[http://ufdc.ufl.edu/UF00075891 Chipley Banner]'' - newspaper that served Washington County, Florida from 1897 to 1900 available in full-text with images in [http://ufdc.ufl.edu/fdnl1 Florida Digital Newspaper Library]
{{Commons category|Washington County, Florida}}
{{Commons category|Washington County, Florida}}


===Government links/Constitutional offices===
===Government links/Constitutional offices===
* [http://www.washingtonfl.com/ Washington County Board of County Commissioners]
* [http://www.washingtonfl.com/ Washington County Board of County Commissioners]
* [http://www.washingtonfl.com/elections.htm Washington County Supervisor of Elections]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20030928174159/http://www.washingtonfl.com/elections.htm Washington County Supervisor of Elections]
* [http://www.washcofl.com/pa/ Washington County Property Appraiser]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20041207010509/http://www.washcofl.com/pa/ Washington County Property Appraiser]
* [http://www.wcso.us/ Washington County Sheriff's Office]
* [http://www.wcso.us/ Washington County Sheriff's Office]
* [http://www.washcofl.com/tc/ Washington County Tax Collector]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20041204091347/http://www.washcofl.com/tc/ Washington County Tax Collector]


====Special districts====
====Special districts====
* [http://www.firn.edu/schools/washington/wash/ Washington District School Board]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20041208191953/http://www.firn.edu/schools/washington/wash/ Washington District School Board]
* [http://sun6.dms.state.fl.us/nwfwmd/ Northwest Florida Water Management District]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20041126013721/http://sun6.dms.state.fl.us/nwfwmd/ Northwest Florida Water Management District]


====Judicial branch====
====Judicial branch====
Line 160: Line 296:


====Community services====
====Community services====
* [http://www.washingtoncountycoa.org/ Washington County Council on Aging] Provides senior and elderly services including meals on wheels, case management, respite, workshops and more to residents throughout Washington County, Florida.
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070919012215/http://www.washingtoncountycoa.org/ Washington County Council on Aging] - provides senior and elderly services including meals on wheels, case management, respite, workshops and more to residents throughout Washington County
* [http://washington.ifas.ufl.edu/ UF IFAS Extension Washington County] The Cooperative Extension Service is nationwide and was established by the Smith-Lever Act of 1914. It is a partnership between state land grant universities, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the county governments throughout the nation. In Florida, the Cooperative Extension Service is administered by the University of Florida. Thus, the Washington County Extension Service is a partnership between the USDA, the University of Florida and Washington County government. All of these groups share in the planning, financing, and operation of extension programs in the areas of Agriculture, Horticulture, Family and Consumer Sciences and 4H Youth Development.
* [http://washington.ifas.ufl.edu/ UF IFAS Extension Washington County] - The Cooperative Extension Service is nationwide and was established by the Smith-Lever Act of 1914. It is a partnership between state land grant universities, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the county governments throughout the nation. In Florida, the Cooperative Extension Service is administered by the University of Florida. Thus, the Washington County Extension Service is a partnership between the USDA, the University of Florida and Washington County government. All of these groups share in the planning, financing, and operation of extension programs in the areas of Agriculture, Horticulture, Family and Consumer Sciences and 4H Youth Development.


===Tourism links===
===Tourism links===
* [http://www.washcomall.com/ Washington County Chamber of Commerce]
* [http://www.washcomall.com/ Washington County Chamber of Commerce]
* [http://www.visitwashingtoncountyfl.com/ Washington County Tourist Development Council]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110717222027/http://www.visitwashingtoncountyfl.com/ Washington County Tourist Development Council]
* [http://www.wcexpo.org/ Washington County Outdoor Expo / Gun & Knife Show]


{{Geographic Location
{{Geographic Location
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}}
}}
{{Washington County, Florida}}
{{Washington County, Florida}}
{{Florida}}
{{Geography of Florida}}
{{North Florida}}


{{coord|30.61|-85.67|display=title|type:adm2nd_region:US-FL_source:UScensus1990}}
{{coord|30.61|-85.67|display=title|type:adm2nd_region:US-FL_source:UScensus1990}}


{{authority control}}
[[Category:Florida counties]]

[[Category:Washington County, Florida| ]]
[[Category:Washington County, Florida| ]]
[[Category:Florida counties]]
[[Category:1825 establishments in Florida Territory]]
[[Category:1825 establishments in Florida Territory]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1825]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1825]]

Latest revision as of 03:10, 12 December 2024

Washington County
County
Washington County Courthouse
Washington County Courthouse
Official seal of Washington County
Seal
Map of Florida highlighting Washington County
Location within the U.S. state of Florida
Map of the United States highlighting Florida
Florida's location within the U.S.
Coordinates: 30°37′N 85°40′W / 30.61°N 85.67°W / 30.61; -85.67
Country United States
State Florida
FoundedDecember 9, 1825
Named forGeorge Washington
SeatChipley
Largest cityChipley
Area
 • Total
616 sq mi (1,600 km2)
 • Land583 sq mi (1,510 km2)
 • Water33 sq mi (90 km2)  5.4%
Population
 (2020)
 • Total
25,318
 • Estimate 
(2023)
25,602 Increase
 • Density41/sq mi (16/km2)
Time zoneUTC−6 (Central)
 • Summer (DST)UTC−5 (CDT)
Congressional district2nd
Websitewww.washingtonfl.com

Washington County is a county located in the northwestern part of the U.S. state of Florida, in the Panhandle. As of the 2020 census, the population was 25,318.[1] Its county seat is Chipley.[2] Washington County is included in the Panama City—Panama City Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History

[edit]
Washington County Courthouse in Chipley

Washington County was created in 1825, and was nearly twice the size of the State of Delaware, stretching all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. After a century of boundary shifts, the county, with over 382,000 acres (1,546 km2) of rolling hills covered in thick, stately pines and mixed hardwood forests, now covers a large portion of the central Florida Panhandle.

Over a span of more than 150 years, Washington County has seen Native American, Spanish and English cultural influences. The county's historical lore is rich with stories of the exploits of Andrew Jackson. There are numerous Native American mounds and evidence of strong settlements still being discovered.

Named after George Washington,[3] the first US president, the area was first settled by those seeking both economic and political freedom in this frontier land of vast timber and mineral resources. Inland waterway transportation brought about heavy river settlements. The arrival of railroads in the late 1800s boosted economic, social and political developments.

Vernon, the geographical center of the county, is named for George Washington's Virginia home, Mt. Vernon. The pioneer town was also the site of a major Indian settlement.

The county courthouse was located in Vernon during the early part of this century, until a railroad town in northeastern Washington County, Chipley, became the new and present county seat in 1927.

Washington County was once a dry county, meaning that the sale of alcoholic beverages was banned in the county. In January 2022, this restriction was removed following a voter referendum in which about two-thirds of voters supported the removal.[4]

Geography

[edit]

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 616 square miles (1,600 km2), of which 583 square miles (1,510 km2) is land and 33 square miles (85 km2) (5.4%) is water.[5]

The county became part of the Panama City metropolitan area in 2023.[6]


Adjacent counties

[edit]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1830978—
1840859−12.2%
18501,950127.0%
18602,15410.5%
18702,3026.9%
18804,08977.6%
18906,42657.2%
190010,15458.0%
191016,40361.5%
192011,828−27.9%
193012,1803.0%
194012,3021.0%
195011,888−3.4%
196011,249−5.4%
197011,4531.8%
198014,50926.7%
199016,91916.6%
200020,97324.0%
201024,89618.7%
202025,3181.7%
2023 (est.)25,602[7]1.1%
U.S. Decennial Census[8]
1790-1960[9] 1900-1990[10]
1990-2000[11] 2010-2015[1] 2019[12]
Washington County racial composition as of 2020
(NH = Non-Hispanic)[a]
Race Pop 2010[15] Pop 2020[16] % 2010 % 2020
White (NH) 19,551 19,484 78.53% 76.96%
Black or African American (NH) 3,698 3,236 14.85% 12.78%
Native American or Alaska Native (NH) 296 222 1.19% 0.88%
Asian (NH) 131 132 0.53% 0.52%
Pacific Islander (NH) 15 28 0.06% 0.11%
Some other race (NH) 14 87 0.06% 0.34%
Mixed/multi-racial (NH) 458 1,205 1.84% 4.76%
Hispanic or Latino 733 924 2.94% 3.65%
Total 24,896 25,318 100.00% 100.00%

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 25,318 people, 9,037 households, and 5,945 families residing in the county.

As of the census[17] of 2000, there were 20,973 people, 7,931 households, and 5,646 families residing in the county. The population density was 36 inhabitants per square mile (14/km2). There were 9,503 housing units at an average density of 16 per square mile (6/km2). The racial makeup of the county was 81.72% White, 13.69% Black or African American, 1.54% Native American, 0.36% Asian, 0.06% Pacific Islander, 0.58% from other races, and 2.05% from two or more races. 2.30% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 7,931 households, out of which 30.30% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.20% were married couples living together, 11.40% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.80% were non-families. 25.10% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.00% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the county, the population was spread out, with 23.40% under the age of 18, 7.70% from 18 to 24, 28.50% from 25 to 44, 24.70% from 45 to 64, and 15.70% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females there were 105.80 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.90 males.

The median income for a household in the county was $27,922, and the median income for a family was $33,057. Males had a median income of $26,597 versus $20,198 for females. The per capita income for the county was $14,980. About 15.40% of families and 19.20% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.90% of those under age 18 and 19.40% of those age 65 or over.

Education

[edit]

The Washington County School District includes:[18]

It is the sole school district in the county.[19]

Washington Public Library System

[edit]

Washington County Public Library system has four branches:

Media

[edit]
  • The Washington County News[20]
  • Foster Folly News[21]
  • The Chipley Bugle[22]

Communities

[edit]
The Washington County sign at Ebro, Florida on Florida State Road 79

Cities

[edit]

Towns

[edit]

Unincorporated communities

[edit]

Transportation

[edit]

Airports

[edit]
  • Washington County is served by Tri-County Airport, a general aviation airport 5.3 miles northwest of central Chipley. It has a 5398-foot runway, passenger terminal and two instrument approaches. Washington County appoints three of the nine-member board of directors which governs the airport.

Major highways

[edit]
See also: List of county roads in Washington County, Florida


Politics

[edit]
United States presidential election results for Washington County, Florida[23]
Year Republican Democratic Third party(ies)
No.  % No.  % No.  %
2024 10,370 82.14% 2,140 16.95% 115 0.91%
2020 9,876 80.06% 2,347 19.03% 112 0.91%
2016 8,637 77.04% 2,264 20.19% 310 2.77%
2012 8,038 72.79% 2,820 25.54% 184 1.67%
2008 8,178 73.23% 2,863 25.64% 126 1.13%
2004 7,369 71.09% 2,912 28.09% 85 0.82%
2000 4,995 62.24% 2,798 34.86% 233 2.90%
1996 3,524 44.83% 2,992 38.06% 1,345 17.11%
1992 3,695 46.94% 2,544 32.32% 1,632 20.73%
1988 4,374 66.64% 2,144 32.66% 46 0.70%
1984 4,608 70.62% 1,916 29.36% 1 0.02%
1980 3,251 49.92% 3,110 47.75% 152 2.33%
1976 2,313 38.58% 3,566 59.47% 117 1.95%
1972 3,777 86.11% 606 13.82% 3 0.07%
1968 528 10.71% 722 14.64% 3,682 74.66%
1964 2,725 64.50% 1,500 35.50% 0 0.00%
1960 1,230 36.96% 2,098 63.04% 0 0.00%
1956 1,027 32.18% 2,164 67.82% 0 0.00%
1952 1,100 32.71% 2,263 67.29% 0 0.00%
1948 297 13.43% 1,380 62.42% 534 24.15%
1944 507 22.98% 1,699 77.02% 0 0.00%
1940 643 25.14% 1,915 74.86% 0 0.00%
1936 486 17.51% 2,289 82.49% 0 0.00%
1932 345 12.46% 2,424 87.54% 0 0.00%
1928 1,672 69.72% 671 27.98% 55 2.29%
1924 206 24.76% 562 67.55% 64 7.69%
1920 307 25.37% 750 61.98% 153 12.64%
1916 159 15.85% 626 62.41% 218 21.73%
1912 82 7.61% 694 64.38% 302 28.01%
1908 288 24.64% 652 55.77% 229 19.59%
1904 202 26.03% 414 53.35% 160 20.62%

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos can be of any race.[13][14]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "State & County QuickFacts". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved June 16, 2014.
  2. ^ "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  3. ^ Publications of the Florida Historical Society. Florida Historical Society. 1908. p. 35.
  4. ^ Wood, Tristan (January 23, 2022). "Washington County residents vote to end 'dry' law, allow hard liquor". Florida Politics. Extensive-Enterprises. Retrieved May 31, 2022.
  5. ^ "US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990". United States Census Bureau. February 12, 2011. Retrieved April 23, 2011.
  6. ^ "Revised Delineations of Metropolitan Statistical Areas, Micropolitan Statistical Areas, and Guidance on the Uses of the Delineations of These Areas" (PDF). Executive Office of the President. July 21, 2023. p. 66. Retrieved July 27, 2023.
  7. ^ "Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Counties: April 1, 2020 to July 1, 2023". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 31, 2024.
  8. ^ "U.S. Decennial Census". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved June 16, 2014.
  9. ^ "Historical Census Browser". University of Virginia Library. Retrieved June 16, 2014.
  10. ^ "Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved June 16, 2014.
  11. ^ "Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000" (PDF). United States Census Bureau. Retrieved June 16, 2014.
  12. ^ "QuickFacts. Florida counties". Retrieved May 20, 2020.
  13. ^ https://www.census.gov/ [not specific enough to verify]
  14. ^ "About the Hispanic Population and its Origin". www.census.gov. Retrieved May 18, 2022.
  15. ^ "Explore Census Data". data.census.gov. Retrieved May 27, 2022.
  16. ^ "Explore Census Data". data.census.gov. Retrieved May 27, 2022.
  17. ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved May 14, 2011.
  18. ^ District, Washington County School. "Schools". Archived from the original on May 14, 2009. Retrieved May 26, 2009.
  19. ^ "2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Washington County, FL" (PDF). U.S. Census Bureau. Retrieved July 19, 2024. - Text list
  20. ^ The Washington County News
  21. ^ Foster Folly News
  22. ^ The Chipley Bugle
  23. ^ Leip, David. "Dave Leip's Atlas of U.S. Presidential Elections". uselectionatlas.org. Retrieved June 16, 2018.

https://www.wjhg.com/2022/01/22/washington-county-dry-no-more/

[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Washington County, Florida.

Government links/Constitutional offices

[edit]

Special districts

[edit]

Judicial branch

[edit]

Community services

[edit]
  • Washington County Council on Aging - provides senior and elderly services including meals on wheels, case management, respite, workshops and more to residents throughout Washington County
  • UF IFAS Extension Washington County - The Cooperative Extension Service is nationwide and was established by the Smith-Lever Act of 1914. It is a partnership between state land grant universities, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the county governments throughout the nation. In Florida, the Cooperative Extension Service is administered by the University of Florida. Thus, the Washington County Extension Service is a partnership between the USDA, the University of Florida and Washington County government. All of these groups share in the planning, financing, and operation of extension programs in the areas of Agriculture, Horticulture, Family and Consumer Sciences and 4H Youth Development.
[edit]

30°37′N 85°40′W / 30.61°N 85.67°W / 30.61; -85.67

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Washington_County,_Florida&oldid=1262578313"