Buford, Georgia
A Comprehensive Historical and Economic Profile of a Key Southeastern Hub.
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Historical Context
Founding and Railroad Influence
Buford's origins trace back to the mid-19th century, initially within Cherokee territory. Its formal establishment in 1872 was intrinsically linked to the construction of the Atlanta and Richmond Air-Line Railway. The city was named in honor of Algernon Sidney Buford, the president of this pivotal railway line during its development, underscoring the critical role of rail transport in its inception and growth.
The Leather City Era
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Buford earned the moniker "The Leather City" due to its prominent leather industry. Spearheaded by the Bona Allen Company, founded in 1873, the city became a major producer of saddles, horse collars, bridles, and shoes. The Bona Allen Company's products achieved national recognition, even being featured in the Sears mail-order catalog and utilized by notable figures in Western cinema, solidifying Buford's reputation in artisanal leather goods.
Tannery Row and Economic Resilience
The historic Tannery Row building, constructed in 1919, stands as a testament to Buford's industrial past. Although the shoe factory within it ceased operations in 1945, Tannery Row was revitalized in 2003 as an artist colony, housing galleries and studios. The Bona Allen Company's resilience, particularly during the Great Depression, highlights the adaptability of Buford's economy, which eventually transitioned away from leather production by the 1980s.
Geographical Landscape
Location and Boundaries
Buford is strategically situated in northern Gwinnett County, Georgia, with a portion extending into Hall County. It functions as a significant suburb within the broader Atlanta metropolitan area. The city's total land area is approximately 18.22 square miles, with a minimal water area. Its elevation stands at roughly 1,053 feet above sea level.
Water Resources and Topography
Buford draws its primary water supply from Lake Lanier, an important reservoir formed by the Chattahoochee River. Topographically, the city lies approximately 4.5 miles west of the Eastern Continental Divide, a significant hydrological feature influencing regional drainage patterns.
Climate Overview
Buford experiences a humid subtropical climate (Kรถppen classification Cfa). This climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, including warm, humid summers and cool winters. July typically registers as the warmest month, with average highs around 87ยฐF (31ยฐC), while January is the coolest, with average highs near 50ยฐF (10ยฐC). Precipitation is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, with February generally being the wettest month and April the driest.
| Climate Data for Buford, Georgia | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
10 0 131 |
12 1 134 |
17 5 94 |
22 9 97 |
25 13 105 |
29 18 112 |
31 21 110 |
30 20 116 |
27 16 99 |
22 11 110 |
17 6 118 |
11 1 116 |
Demographic Overview
Population Trends
Buford has experienced significant population growth over the decades. From a population of 896 in 1880, it grew to 17,144 by the 2020 census, reflecting a notable increase of 40.2% between 2010 and 2020. This expansion indicates a dynamic community development trajectory.
Ethnic Composition (2020)
The demographic profile of Buford in 2020 indicates a diverse population. White individuals (non-Hispanic) constitute the largest group at 49.18%. Hispanic or Latino individuals represent 27.11%, followed by Black or African American individuals (non-Hispanic) at 13.42%. Asian individuals make up 5.9%, with smaller percentages identifying with other races or mixed heritage.
Economic Drivers
Economic Landscape
Buford's economy benefits from a favorable sales tax rate of 6% (4% state, 2% local). In 2008, CNN Money recognized Buford among its "100 best places to live and start a business," highlighting its economic vitality and business-friendly environment. The labor force participation rate for individuals aged 16 and older is approximately 65%, with a 6% unemployment rate among those in the labor force.
Key Industries
Historically, Buford's economy was anchored by its railway operations and a robust leather industry, exemplified by the Bona Allen Company. While these sectors have declined, the city has adapted. Today, major employers include Makita, a power tool manufacturer with a significant local presence, and formerly Takeuchi Manufacturing, which operated a facility in Buford before relocating.
Recreation and Amenities
Green Spaces and Trails
Buford offers extensive recreational opportunities, including over 7 miles of walking trails accessible from the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center and the Mall of Georgia. Portions of the Ivy Creek Greenway run through the city, providing scenic routes for residents. Additional trails are available at Bogan Park and Buford Dam Park.
Retail and Community Hubs
The Mall of Georgia, situated within Buford's mailing address area, is the state's largest mall and a significant retail destination. The Buford Community Center, completed in 2012, serves as a multi-purpose facility featuring a museum, a 290-seat theater, an amphitheater, and various event spaces, enhancing the city's cultural and social infrastructure.
Civic Structure
Governance Model
The City of Buford operates under a city commission government, led by a Commission Chairman, a position held by Phillip Beard since 1975. This structure has evolved over time, transitioning from a six-commissioner system upon incorporation in 1872 to a mayor-and-council system in 1896, before reverting to the commission model with a new charter in 1937.
Representation
Buford's geographical distribution across Gwinnett and Hall counties places different parts of the city within Georgia's 7th and 9th congressional districts, respectively. At the state level, Buford is represented in the Georgia State Senate by districts 45 and 49, and in the Georgia House of Representatives by districts 97, 98, and 103.
Educational Framework
School Districts
Residents within Buford's city limits are served by the Buford City School District, which includes Buford Academy, Buford Elementary, Buford Middle School, and Buford High School. Areas outside the city limits fall under the jurisdiction of Gwinnett County Public Schools or Hall County Public Schools, depending on their specific location.
Library Services
The Buford community has access to the Buford-Sugar Hill Branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library system, providing essential resources and services to residents.
Cultural Institutions
Heritage Center
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center, established in August 2006, serves as a museum and educational facility. It focuses on teaching children about water resources and environmental stewardship, alongside Gwinnett County's cultural heritage, including the history of the Cherokee and Creek peoples. The historic Chesser-Williams House, one of the county's oldest wooden homes, is preserved here as part of the exhibits.
Community Center
Completed in 2012, the Buford Community Center offers a modern venue for cultural and community events. It features a museum, a 290-seat theater, an outdoor amphitheater, and versatile spaces suitable for meetings, banquets, and weddings, significantly contributing to the city's cultural life.
Media and Film
Broadcast and Print
As part of the Atlanta metropolitan area, Buford receives programming from major Atlanta television stations, including NBC affiliate WXIA-TV, CBS affiliate WANF, ABC affiliate WSB-TV, and Fox affiliate WAGA-TV. WGTV, the PBS member station for Georgia Public Television, also serves the area. The primary local newspaper is the Gwinnett Daily Post.
Filming Location
Buford and its surrounding areas have served as filming locations for several notable films, including Killers (2010), Need for Speed, Blended, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and A Simple Twist of Fate, underscoring the region's appeal for film production.
Infrastructure and Services
Transportation Networks
Buford is strategically served by major transportation arteries, including Interstate 85 and Interstate 985, which traverse the city. Georgia State Route 20 and U.S. Route 23 also pass through Buford, facilitating regional connectivity. Public transportation options include Gwinnett County Transit and GRTA Xpress park-and-ride services connecting to Atlanta.
Healthcare Access
While Buford hosts several clinics and an Emory Healthcare facility, major hospital services are located nearby. Northside Hospital-Forsyth in Cumming, Northside Hospital Imaging Center in Buford, Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville, and Emory Johns Creek Hospital are key healthcare providers accessible to Buford residents.
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References
References
- U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Buford, Georgia
- Official Guide of the Railways, June 1968, Southern Railway section, Table 2, no more northbound stop
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Academic Disclaimer
Important Notice
This document has been generated by an AI system, synthesizing information from publicly available sources, primarily Wikipedia. It is intended for educational and informational purposes, providing a structured overview of Buford, Georgia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, the content may not encompass all nuances or the most current data. Users are advised to consult primary sources and official documentation for definitive information. This content does not constitute professional advice, and reliance upon it is at the user's own discretion.