Franklin County was created in 1832. It was named for Benjamin Franklin, famous scientist, printer, and author. Highly valued for their unspoiled natural environment, the coastal communities of Apalachicola, St. George Island, Carrabelle, Alligator Point, and Dog Island offer an authentic taste of Florida's Gulf Coast with plenty of charm & history. You'll find miles of pristine beaches, an endless supply of protected shallow bays, excellent fishing & acres of National and State forests to explore. Apalachicola's diverse and colorful past remains visible today. Apalachicola's rich history and a maritime culture are complimented by the area's bountiful natural resources. The Apalachicola River and Bay provide great fishing opportunities for both fresh and salt water fishing buffs. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the endless bays and waterways by kayak, canoe, riverboat or sailboat. St. George Island is a 28-mile barrier island with some of the most beautiful and serene beaches on the Gulf Coast. It is one of the last inhabited, yet unspoiled, barrier islands of Florida, with miles of beaches for sunning and shelling, clear Gulf waters for swimming and excellent fishing, pristine marshes for wildlife viewing. Carrabelle is "The Gateway to the World's most Beautiful Beaches." Once home to the training ground for U.S. troops prepping for Normandy, Carrabelle relishes its status as part of Florida's "Forgotten Coast," maintaining world class fishing opportunities in a secluded hamlet on the Panhandle. Alligator Point is a water-lover's dream, with world class fishing, beachcombing, snorkeling and swimming attracting the few residents who populate this quiet beach town.