What’s interesting when it comes to history in Georgia is that just when you think you know it all, something else pops up. That’s how we felt when we found out about the various German POW camps in Georgia back during World War II. During the war, Georgia military camps and air force bases were all used as internment camps for enemies taken as prisoners. One German POW camp in Georgia was Fort Benning, a U.S. Army post that is right near the Alabama-Georgia border. Learn all about the WWII history in Georgia as well as the history behind this old POW camp below.

During World War II, German prisoners of war were interned in various POW camps in Georgia—which included Fort Oglethorpe, Fort Gordon, Camp Stewart, Camp Wheeler, and Fort Benning.
Georgia Encylopedia
One German POW camp in Georgia, Fort Benning, which was initially named Camp Benning, was named after the Confederate General Henry L. Benning when it was established in 1909.
Wikipedia/sgbradley
During WWII, however, Fort Benning housed thousands of prisoners of war, as the larger camps sometimes held between 2,000 and 4,000 prisoners.
According to the rules established during the Geneva Convention, German POWs were treated similarly to other military personnel at the fort, supplied with enough food, proper sleeping arrangements, and even medical care.
Wikipedia/Public Domain
While in the camp, German POWs were allowed canteen privileges and would need to maintain their own camps which included painting, mowing the grass, washing vehicles, and other tasks.
Georgia Encylopedia
Fort Benning became quite significant after the U.S. got involved in World War II, not only for their POW camp but also because of the trained military that came out of these camps.
Wikipedia/Public Domain
When the war was coming to an end in 1944, a re-education program was implemented for the POWs with some prisoners even receiving lessons in English, government, and American history.
Yet, at the end of the war, the POWs were sent home to their respective countries, and today, Fort Benning still remains a coveted military post in the United States.
Flickr Wayne Hsieh

Did you know about the fascinating history behind this old German POW camp in Georgia? Did you even know there were POWs in Georgia? Or, perhaps, you know of some more interesting WWII history in Georgia? Whatever it is, make sure to let us know!

This German POW camp in Georgia isn’t the only fascinating remnant of the past in the state. There are lots of historical places in Georgia.

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Daniella DiRienzo | May 16, 2023

Are there any historical places in Georgia to explore?

Yes, the state of Georgia has a wealth of historical places to explore. Here are some notable historic places in Georgia:

  • Savannah Historic District: The Savannah Historic District is a large area filled with well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, squares, and parks. It's known for its beautiful architecture, including examples of Georgian, Greek revival, and Victorian styles.
  • Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site: This site in Atlanta commemorates the life and work of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. It includes his childhood home, Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, and the King Center, where you can learn about his legacy.
  • Jekyll Island Historic District: Jekyll Island is a barrier island off the coast of Georgia known for its historic district. It was once an exclusive winter retreat for the wealthy elite, and the district features grand mansions and buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

 

Is this German POW camp in Georgia the only remnant of the past in the Peach State?

Yes, there are several ruins in the state of Georgia that offer glimpses into the past. Here are a few examples of ruins in Georgia:

  • Wormsloe Historic Site: Wormsloe Historic Site is known for its iconic avenue of live oak trees draped with Spanish moss. Within the site, you can explore the ruins of the colonial estate of Noble Jones, one of the first English settlers in Georgia. The ruins include the remains of tabby outbuildings and a fortified house.
  • Etowah Indian Mounds: Etowah Indian Mounds is an archaeological site that was once a major Native American center of the Mississippian culture. The site features several mounds and the remains of a large plaza, earthen walls, and a museum that displays artifacts discovered during excavations.
  • New Manchester Manufacturing Company: Located within Sweetwater Creek State Park near Atlanta, the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company provide a glimpse into Georgia's industrial past. The mill was built in the mid-19th century and produced textiles until it was destroyed during the Civil War.

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Fort Benning, GA 31905, USA