The Middle Georgia and Atlantic Railroad from Gordon to Covington was completed in the 1890s. Seeing the possibilities for a new town, a group of businessmen organized the Carmel Land Improvement Company, which began purchasing land for the township later to be known as Mansfield. Legend has it that the businessmen pledged to name the town after whoever among the company was still sober after the celebration and barbeque following the sale of lots. Apparently little else is known of Mr. Mansfield other than he was there and he exercised temperance.
Like many rural, agricultural communities, Mansfield has undergone growth and decline several times according to the rise and fall of economic prosperity and population. Mansfield is currently home to the Beaver Manufacturing Company, several small commercial enterprises and Mansfield Elementary School. Numerous early 20th Century homes still stand and are beginning to attract newcomers to the area who appreciate the quite, historic, small town life and are investing in renovations.