-Chapter V- GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
The People, Housing, and Statistics
Murray County's population at the turn of this century was 8,623. By 1910 it had risen to 9,763. Then began a small decline to 9,490 in 1920 and 9,215 by 1930. During that decade the number of residents increased to 11,137 in 1940. Following World War II the population again declined. It was 10,676 in 1950 and just slightly lower (10,447) in 1960.
According to the 1970 census there were 12,986 Murray Countians. Eight years later statisticians estimated that the population would be 18,814 by 1980. Instead it was 19.685. The county population was estimated at 23,000 in 1984. The Murray County economy has gained steadily since the early 1970's.
At the time of the 1970 census Murray had over 5,000 housing units. Costs were lower than the national average due to the general year-around building season, productive labor, and moderate land costs. Many people invested in developments and several important subdivisions have arisen. Among them are: Woods Estates (1973-4). Riverview (1970's), Fort Mountain Estates (1974), Murray Springs (1975), Whispering Pines (1965), Fox Fields (1969), Spring-dale (1970), Chatheton Terrace (1955), Lakeview Estates (1946), Barksdale Estates (1967), and Mountain Acres (1972-3).
In 1979 Chatsworth was included in a national magazine. Albert Edwards of The Chatsworth Times wrote the following about the November 26 U.S. News and World Report story:
"Already Overcrowded" is (he title of the section devoted to Chatsworth in the national news magazine. Appearing under a feature article entitled, "What Lures Americans Back to the Land," the piece opens with the following statement: "For years, this remote hill town tucked into the mountains of northwest Georgia was known for only one thing-its annual wagon train."
The article goes on to note the rapid growth of an area where the writer says the population is expected to total about 30,000 by 1985. The story also states that this area has attracted about 1,000 newcomers annually. It attributes this growth to a diversification of industry, and a desire of some people to try the enjoyments of small-town life.
Murray County Commissioner Kirby Patterson was interviewed for the article and the commissioner also called attention to the area's rapid growth. "We're a rural county," Patterson was quoted as saying. "I'd love to stay that way, but it looks like we won't get to."
Perhaps [he best part of the article had to do with the progress being made here. The writer concludes the paragraph on this by noting, "But crews of workmen are building all over town, and the rural aura is wearing thinner as more people, businesses and vehicles appear."
Less than a year later, on July 31, 1980. The Times printed the following: "Voter Number Listed By District"
A total of 7,223 Murray County residents are eligible to vote in next Tuesday's Democratic and Republican Primaries.
The breakdown-by voting precincts-is as follows: Bull Pen (1201)-306; Carters-Doolittle (872)-514; Cisco (1011)-211; Eighth (984)-246; and McDonald (1013)-910.
Shuck Pen (1039)-386; Spring Place (1895)-1090; and Tennga (I713)-164; Tenth (874)-319;Town A-K (824)-l,566 and Town L-Z (824)-l,511.;
Today two governmental groups oversee the development of Murray County.
Chatsworth-Murray County Joint Planning Commission: This joint City-County agency is responsible for the development of Murray County and its municipalities. This responsibility includes the preparation of comprehensive development plans for land use, roads, community facilities and plans for zoning and land use regulations to implement planning proposals. The City of Chatsworth adopted a zoning ordinance in 1967. Murray County adopted subdivision regulations in 1967.
North Georgia Area Planning and Development Commission: This is a 6-county regional body created by its member units of government to formulate goals, strategies, and techniques for area development; to coordinate public and private efforts toward shared objectives; to guide growth of cities and counties; and to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of the North Georgia Area. The NGAPDC provides staff assistance and technical aid to Murray County and its municipalities including the Chatsworth-Murray County Joint Planning Commission and acts as a clearinghouse for Federal aid programs.
Murray's future looks as rich and as varied as its heritage!
Murray County Heritage