Byron Herbert Reece

Located in the northern part of Georgia, Union County has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. Originally inhabited by the Cherokee Native American tribe, the area was part of the Cherokee Nation until the forced removal known as the Trail of Tears in the 1830s. Following the removal, European settlers began to arrive in the region.

Union County was officially established in 1832, taking its name from the concept of unity, as it was created from parts of various neighboring counties. The county initially relied on subsistence farming and logging as primary economic activities. With the discovery of gold in neighboring Lumpkin County in the 1830s, Union County experienced a brief gold rush that brought some growth and prosperity to the area.

During the American Civil War, Union County played a significant role. Many of its residents supported the Confederacy, and the county contributed soldiers to Confederate forces. Tensions ran high, and there were occasional skirmishes and raids in the region. Following the war, Union County, like many areas in the South, faced the challenges of reconstruction and rebuilding its economy.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Union County saw a shift towards agriculture, particularly apple orchards and livestock farming. The establishment of the Blue Ridge Railroad in the late 1890s also brought increased connectivity and opportunities for trade and transportation. Today, Union County continues to evolve while preserving its natural beauty and heritage, with a thriving tourism industry focused on outdoor recreational activities in the Chattahoochee National Forest and other scenic areas.