Swainsboro was named for Colonel Stephen Swain, a member of the state legislature. Its name was changed to Paris for a brief period, and then changed back to Swainsboro.The George L. Smith, II, State Park is in Emanuel County. It is best known for the newly refurbished Parrish Mill, a combination grist mill, saw mill, covered bridge and dam built in 1880. The park offers 11 miles of hiking trails, fishing, canoeing and boating.The county hosts a number of annual festivals and events, including the Pine Tree Festival, Garfield Washpot Cookout, and Agricultural Appreciation Day.