Evans County, the 150th county formed in Georgia, was created from parts of Bulloch and Tattnall counties. It was named for Confederate General Clement A. Evans who led the last charge of the Army of Virginia at Appomattox. Claxton, the county seat, was incorporated in 1911 and named for Kate Claxton, a popular actress of the time.

The City of Claxton is known as the “Fruit Cake Capital of the World” in honor of its production of the traditional holiday treat. The Georgia Fruit Cake Company and Claxton Bakery, Inc., ship this delicacy around the globe each year.