20th Century Brunswick

Throughout the 20th Century, the City of Brunswick saw numerous changes physically, socially, and organizationally:

1910s

• The first electric streetcar lines were installed. However, as time progressed with the construction of highways and automobiles, they were later discontinued.

​​1920s

• The form of government was switched from a City Council, with 9 Alderman, to a 5-body City Commission. For a period of time the City Commission was given the power to select the Mayor, rather than the people. This practice lasted until the 1960s and wasn't uncommon for governments whose council shared equal power. Additionally, the switch to the Commission form of government introduced the role of City Manager - the Chief Administrative Officer of the City. This allowed elected officials to focus more on policy and less on day-to-day operations.

• Following the passage of the 19th Amendment (August 18, 1920)  and during an October City Council Meeting, 195 women signed a petition outlining the refusal of the City Clerk to register them for a December election. Following an executive session, Alderman Eustace C. Butts on behalf of the City Council, affirmed by resolution, women's right to vote in the City of Brunswick on October 25, 1920. 

1930s

• The Great Depression hit Brunswick particularly hard as an industrial port city, leaving the Port of Brunswick on the verge of collapse. Over time, the port regained its dominance and flourishes today.

1940s

• When World War II hit, it brought a call for men and women to construct and launch over 99 Liberty ships from J.A. Jones Shipyard, employing 16,000 workers. The creation of these Liberty Ships were an integral part of the American war effort and created an economic boom.

1950s

• The Sidney Lanier Bridge opened on June 22, 1956.

1960s

• Following the passage of numerous Civil Right's bills, segregation was no longer legally enforceable. In an effort to document the Civil Rights era around the country, a predecessor to PBS filmed a documentary titled "Quiet Conflict" which focused on Civil Rights progress being made without violence in our City. This documentary can be accessed by Clicking Here.

1970s

• On November 7, 1972 and during election night - a cargo ship crashed into the Sidney Lanier Bridge, causing it to collapse. Tragically 10 lives were lost.

1980s

• In 1981 the first Sister City was established with Ilan, Taiwan, Republic of China to enhance cultural and economic exchanges.
• Between December 22-24, 1989 - The City of Brunswick was hit with 3 to 6 inches of snowfall.