A Walk into the Past — Exploring North Georgia History

North Georgia is rich in history, with many state historic sites commemorating Native Americans and early pioneers. North Georgia historic sites offer unique experiences for all ages just north of Atlanta, from mounds and mansions to famous historical events such as the Civil War and the Georgia Gold Rush. Consider visiting a historical site, museum, or visitor centre on your next trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains to learn more about the area. Take guided tours of Georgia state historic sites, interact with the exhibits, and bring home souvenirs from the unique gift shops!

North Georgia Historic Sites

Chief Vann House State Historic Site | Chatsworth, GA

The Chief Vann House, built in 1804 and still standing today, is a historic site in the North Georgia Mountains with beautiful antiques, a 12-foot mantle, and a floating staircase. Before the tragic Trail of Tears, Chief James Vann lived in this two-story brick house and built the Cherokee Nation's largest and most prosperous plantation. Visit the seasonal gardens, take a guided house tour, eat at the picnic tables, and browse the gift shop while you're there.

Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site | Dahlonega, GA

The Dahlonega Gold Museum is a North Georgia historic site that commemorates the early gold rush days. It is considered one of the state's oldest standing courthouse buildings and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A complete set of rare coins, a classic gold nugget, and a hydraulic cannon used to blast the mountainside for gold mines are all on display. The judge's chambers, traditional architecture, and wooden chapel seats can all be found inside the 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse. Do you want more? Return to experience the Gold Rush Days Festival!

Hardman Farm State Historic Site | Sautee Nacoochee, GA

A 19th-century mansion with an Italian design can be found along the Unicoi Turnpike, an original Native American nature trail in the Appalachian Mountains — a stunning part of Hardman Farm. The Sautee Nacoochee Indian Mound is also located at this North Georgia historic homestead. You can take a guided tour of the house, which features Anna Ruby Nichols' bedroom in relation to the nearby Anna Ruby Falls.

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site | Cartersville, GA

Between 1000 and 1550 A.D., thousands of Native Americans called the Etowah Indian Mounds home. Explore a mini-museum filled with artefacts from this 54-acre historic site before heading out to walk the lovely grounds bordered by the Etowah River. Be amazed by the massive ditch used for defence against other tribes, an original fish weir, and the 6 earthen mounds, one of which reaches 63 feet into the sky!

New Echota State Historic Site | Calhoun, GA

New Echota was the Cherokee Nation's capital...as well as the starting point for their forced removal during the Trail of Tears. This historic site in North Georgia is located at the headwaters of the Oostanaula River. Many historical events occurred here, including the publication of the first Native American newspaper and a court case that reached the Supreme Court. There are 12 structures as well as a visitor centre with exhibits, a film, and souvenirs.

Historical Places to Visit in North Georgia

1. Byron Herbert Reece Farm and Heritage Center | Blairsville, GA
2. Currahee Military Museum | Toccoa, GA
3. Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia | Sautee Nacoochee, GA
4. Foxfire Museum & Heritage Center | Mountain City, GA
5. Helen Arts & Heritage | Helen, GA
6. Historic Union County Courthouse & Mountain Life Museum | Blairsville, GA
7. Sautee Nacoochee Center | Sautee Nacoochee, GA

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