Echols County, located on the Georgia/Florida border, was created in 1858 from portions of Clinch and Lowndes counties. It was named for Robert M. Echols, a member of the General Assembly for 24 years and a Senate President, who died fighting as a brigadier general in the Mexican War.

Statenville is named for Capt. James W. Staten, who built the first store in the town. Statenville was previously known as Troublesome.