Franklin County, Florida, is a small county located on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida’s panhandle. The county, which is full of charming small-town communities, lush vegetation, and gulf-side beauty, has a population of around 11,500. The county seat is Apalachicola, which is named after the river that borders the western side of the county. The county itself was named after one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Benjamin Franklin.
The county was created in 1832 from Gadsden and Washington Counties. Before European settlement in the area, the county was home to the Apalachicola Indians. Later, residents of the area enjoyed the prosperity that came with being one of the state’s largest sponge producers as well as a busy port for the shipment of cotton. The area was also a hub of timber and fishing industries.
Today the community thrives largely on tourism and also has a large retirement community. It is easy to see the attractions of this out-of-the-way county. Miles of beautiful white beaches form the southern border, and the county is home to several islands and countless bay-side communities. St. George Island is a popular destination for tourists and residents looking for a relaxing getaway from everyday life. There is no lack of exciting activities from shopping, to full moon lighthouse climbs at the St. George and Crooked River Lighthouses.
The beautiful landscape of Franklin County, along with its rich history, lively culture, and endless leisure activities, makes this county an enviable place to live.