Florida

Gadsden County was once recognized as Florida’s shade tobacco capital and is now a peaceful community in the Florida Panhandle, just west of Tallahassee. Quincy, the county seat, is known for its charming historic district and small-town character.

Much of Gadsden County features rolling hills, farmland, and rural landscapes. Unlike most Florida counties, it has little to no direct beach access. The Ochlockonee River forms part of the county’s eastern boundary, while Lake Talquin is a popular destination for fishing and boating.

Gadsden County’s African American heritage is an important part of its history and culture. Visitors can also find historic antebellum homes throughout the area, adding to its distinctive character. Away from Florida’s major tourist destinations, Gadsden County maintains a slower pace of life where Southern traditions and rural heritage remain deeply rooted.

CategoryDetails
County NameGadsden County
County SeatQuincy
EtymologyNamed after James Gadsden, an American diplomat and the Gadsden Purchase advocate
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesQuincy, Chattahoochee, Gretna, Havana, Midway, Greensboro
Interstates and HighwaysI-10, U.S. 90, U.S. 27, SR 12
FIPS Code12-041
Total Area (Land and Water)1,162 square miles (land: 1,067 sq mi, water: 95 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction) Decatur County, Georgia (North), Seminole County, Georgia (North), Grady County, Georgia (Northeast), Leon County (East), Liberty County (Southwest), Calhoun County (Southwest), Jackson County (Northwest)
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
StateFlorida
Coordinates30.5897° N, 84.5855° W
Major Landmarks Lake Talquin, Gadsden County Courthouse, Jim Woodruff Dam, Apalachicola National Forest
PopulationApproximately 48,000
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