Plains is a small town located in Sumter County, Georgia, home to the Annual Plains Peanut Festival. While not primarily an agricultural town, Plains has significance in relation to its agricultural history and its most famous resident, President Jimmy Carter.
Here are 5 facts about Plains, GA, and its connection to agriculture:
- Peanuts: Plains is closely associated with the peanut farming industry. President Jimmy Carter, who hails from Plains, was a peanut farmer himself. The Carter family farmed peanuts for many years, and their success in the peanut business contributed to the town’s reputation as a peanut-growing area.
- Jimmy Carter National Historic Site: Plains is home to the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site, which includes the preserved childhood home of President Jimmy Carter and several other buildings associated with his life. The site offers visitors insights into the agricultural roots of the Carter family, including their involvement in peanut farming and the local farming community.
- Annual Plains Peanut Festival: Plains hosts an annual event called the Plains Peanut Festival, which celebrates the town’s peanut heritage. The festival typically includes activities such as peanut-themed contests, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and food stalls featuring various peanut dishes.
- Local Agriculture: While peanuts have historical significance in Plains, modern agricultural activities in the area are more diverse. Local farmers cultivate crops like cotton, corn, soybeans, and vegetables, taking advantage of the fertile farmland in Sumter County.
- Agritourism: Plains and the surrounding area embrace agritourism by offering farm tours, visits to working farms, and opportunities to learn about sustainable agriculture practices. Visitors can explore local farms, engage with farmers, and gain insights into the region’s agricultural heritage.
While Plains, GA, may be best known for its association with President Jimmy Carter, the town’s agricultural background, particularly in peanut farming, adds to its historical and cultural significance. Today, Plains continues to celebrate its agricultural heritage and welcomes visitors to learn about its farming traditions and experience the charm of a small Georgia town.