West Point, GA

County: Troup

History

West Point, Georgia

West Point, Georgia, is a small city located in Troup County along the Chattahoochee River in the southwestern part of the state. The history of West Point dates back to the early 19th century, when the area was inhabited by the Creek Native American tribe.

In 1826, the federal government established a trading post on the banks of the Chattahoochee River, which later evolved into a military outpost and trading center. This trading post served as a crossroads for both Native American tribes and settlers moving westward.

The Treaty of Cusseta, signed in 1832, forced the removal of the Creek Nation from the area as part of the Indian Removal Act. This led to the Treaty of Indian Springs, signed on February 12, 1825, where the Creek Nation ceded the remaining lands in the region.

Following the Treaty of Indian Springs, European American settlers began to arrive in the area, and in 1832, John Bacon Heard, a politician from the neighboring town of Franklin, founded the town of West Point on the former Creek lands. The town was named after New York's United States Military Academy at West Point to honor the nation's military heritage.

The arrival of the railroad in 1851 was a significant turning point in West Point's history. The town became a major stop on the Western and Atlantic Railroad, which connected Chattanooga, Tennessee, to Atlanta, Georgia. This transportation link led to economic growth and industrialization in West Point.

During the Civil War, West Point became a strategic location due to its railroad connections. The town saw skirmishes and witnessed the movement of troops throughout the conflict. It remained under Confederate control until April 1865, when Union soldiers captured West Point.

West Point's industrial development accelerated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The opening of textile mills provided employment opportunities and attracted workers to the area. The West Point Manufacturing Company became a major employer, contributing to the city's growth.

In 1923, the automotive company now known as Kia Motors established a manufacturing plant in West Point. This plant has played a crucial role in the city's economy and has contributed to its ongoing development.

Today, West Point continues to thrive as a small but vibrant city. It preserves its historical heritage while embracing modern industries, remaining an important hub for manufacturing in Georgia. The city also benefits from its location along the Chattahoochee River, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and visitors who enjoy its natural beauty.

Attractions

West Point Lake

West Point Lake

A popular destination for water sports and fishing, West Point Lake offers miles of shoreline and beautiful scenery.

The West Point Depot

This restored train station is now a museum showcasing the history of West Point and its importance as a railroad town.

Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia

Take a tour of the Kia Motors factory and learn about the production process of these popular automobiles.

The Point University Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf at this scenic 18-hole course located on the campus of Point University.

West Point River Park

This park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground along the Chattahoochee River, providing a great spot for outdoor activities.

West Point Lake Wildlife Management Area

Explore nature and wildlife at this expansive area. It features hiking trails, hunting opportunities, and camping facilities.

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

Visit this beautiful historic church, known for its stunning stained-glass windows and Gothic architecture.

InterfaceFLOR Outlet

Shop for discounted carpet tiles and other flooring options at this outlet store.

LaGrange Art Museum

Located nearby in LaGrange, the LaGrange Art Museum showcases a variety of contemporary art exhibitions and hosts educational programs.

Hills and Dales Estate

Also situated in LaGrange, this 175-acre estate is known for its stunning gardens, beautiful architecture, and rich history. It offers guided tours for visitors to explore its grounds and learn about its past.

Climate

The climate of West Point, GA is classified as humid subtropical, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters.

Summers in West Point are typically hot and muggy, with average high temperatures in the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (around 30 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves are not uncommon during the summer months, with temperatures occasionally soaring into the mid-90s Fahrenheit (35-36 degrees Celsius). Humidity levels are relatively high during this time, which can make the weather feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are also common during the summer, providing some relief from the heat.

Winters in West Point are generally mild and short-lived, with average high temperatures ranging from the low to mid-50s Fahrenheit (around 10 degrees Celsius). It rarely snows in the region, and if it does, the snowfall is typically light and melts quickly. However, cold fronts can bring chilly temperatures occasionally, with lows dropping to near freezing or slightly below.

Spring and autumn in West Point are characterized by pleasant and mild weather. Spring brings moderate temperatures, with highs ranging from the upper 60s to upper 70s Fahrenheit (around 20-25 degrees Celsius) and increasing precipitation. Autumn is also mild, with temperatures starting to cool off from the summer heat. The fall foliage in the surrounding area can be quite beautiful.

Overall, West Point, GA experiences a fairly mild and typical Southern climate, with hot summers and mild winters.

Neighborhoods

West Point, GA is a small city located in Troup County, situated on the border of Alabama and Georgia. While the city itself is relatively small, it is made up of several neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the neighborhoods in West Point:

Downtown West Point

The heart of the city, Downtown West Point is a historic district with charming architecture, tree-lined streets, and a range of eateries, shops, and businesses. It has a welcoming small-town vibe and is a popular gathering place for residents.

North West Point

This neighborhood is located towards the northern part of the city and is primarily residential. It consists of a mix of housing options, ranging from single-family homes to apartments. The area is known for its quiet atmosphere and proximity to parks and recreational facilities.

South West Point

Located south of Downtown, South West Point is another primarily residential area. It offers a variety of housing styles, including older homes and newer developments. The neighborhood is known for its close-knit community and access to amenities like schools, parks, and shopping centers.

Lake West Point

Situated on the western side of the city, Lake West Point includes properties along the shoreline of West Point Lake, a popular recreational spot. This neighborhood offers a mix of lakefront homes, vacation rentals, and campgrounds, making it an ideal location for residents who enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.

Industrial Park Area

Located on the eastern edge of West Point, the Industrial Park Area is home to various businesses and industries. This neighborhood is known for its industrial infrastructure, including manufacturing plants and distribution centers, providing employment opportunities for local residents.

Overall, West Point, GA has a range of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences, from historic downtown streets to residential areas with easy access to parks and lakes. The city offers a tight-knit community feel and a peaceful environment, making it an attractive place to live and work.

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