Historical Markers in Pickens County, Georgia
The first gold rush in America happened in Georgia in 1828, when gold was discovered in the northwestern part of the state. This discovery led to the creation of the Dahlonega Mint, which produced gold coins until the outbreak of the Civil War.
About Pickens County
Pickens County Timeline
Pickens County, Georgia, located in the northwestern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history. The area was initially inhabited by various indigenous peoples, including the Cherokee, who have a significant cultural and historical presence in the region. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile valleys and abundant natural resources.
In the early 19th century, the discovery of gold in Georgia sparked a gold rush, and Pickens County became a thriving mining community. This influx of miners and prospectors led to the establishment of several mining towns, including Jasper, the county seat. The gold rush brought both wealth and turmoil to the area, as conflicts arose between the settlers and the native Cherokee population, eventually leading to their forced relocation along the infamous Trail of Tears.
Following the removal of the Cherokee, Pickens County experienced a period of growth and prosperity. Agriculture became the primary industry, with an emphasis on cotton production and livestock farming. The construction of the Western and Atlantic Railroad in the 19th century further stimulated economic development, connecting the county to larger markets and facilitating trade.
In the early 20th century, Pickens County faced challenges brought by the Great Depression and the decline of the agricultural sector. However, the county rebounded as industries such as textile manufacturing and poultry processing emerged. Today, Pickens County is a bustling community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The county also takes pride in preserving its historical sites and cultural heritage, with numerous historic landmarks and museums that celebrate its vibrant history.
In the early 19th century, the discovery of gold in Georgia sparked a gold rush, and Pickens County became a thriving mining community. This influx of miners and prospectors led to the establishment of several mining towns, including Jasper, the county seat. The gold rush brought both wealth and turmoil to the area, as conflicts arose between the settlers and the native Cherokee population, eventually leading to their forced relocation along the infamous Trail of Tears.
Following the removal of the Cherokee, Pickens County experienced a period of growth and prosperity. Agriculture became the primary industry, with an emphasis on cotton production and livestock farming. The construction of the Western and Atlantic Railroad in the 19th century further stimulated economic development, connecting the county to larger markets and facilitating trade.
In the early 20th century, Pickens County faced challenges brought by the Great Depression and the decline of the agricultural sector. However, the county rebounded as industries such as textile manufacturing and poultry processing emerged. Today, Pickens County is a bustling community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. The county also takes pride in preserving its historical sites and cultural heritage, with numerous historic landmarks and museums that celebrate its vibrant history.
Pickens County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Pickens County, Georgia.
- 1820: Pickens County was established by an act of the Georgia General Assembly.
- 1833: The county's first courthouse was built in the town of Jasper.
- 1853: The railroad arrived in the county, boosting economic growth.
- 1861-1865: In the Civil War, many Pickens County residents served in the Confederate Army.
- 1883: The Marble industry began in the county with the opening of a marble quarry.
- 1989: The Tate House, a historic mansion, was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
- 1992: The county celebrated its 172nd birthday.
- 2003: The Georgia Marble Festival was established to showcase the county's marble heritage.
- 2018: A wildfire known as the "Rough Ridge Fire" burned more than 27,000 acres of land in the county.