National Register Listing

Dawson Couty Jail

a.k.a. Old Dawson County Jail

HW 53, Dawsonville, GA
Local significance of the building:
Politics/government; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

politics government architecture jails and prisons
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Dawson County, located in the state of Georgia, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The region was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Creek, and Shawnee, who inhabited the area for thousands of years. European settlers began to arrive in the early 1800s, leading to the establishment of Dawson County.

The county was officially formed in 1857 and was named after William C. Dawson, a prominent politician and U.S. Senator from Georgia. In its early years, Dawson County was primarily an agricultural area, with crops such as corn, cotton, and tobacco being the main economic drivers. However, the county faced significant challenges during the Civil War, as battles were fought nearby and a great number of young men from the area served in the Confederate Army.

In the late 19th century, Dawson County experienced a period of growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in 1881 brought new opportunities for trade and commerce, and the county saw an increase in population and industrial activity. The lumber and mining industries became important sources of employment, with timber and minerals being extracted from the surrounding forests and mountains.

Over the years, Dawson County has continued to evolve and adapt. In the 20th century, the county saw advancements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Today, Dawson County is a thriving community known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and proximity to the vibrant city of Atlanta. The county's history, marked by the resilience and determination of its residents, is a testament to the enduring spirit of Dawson County.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Dawson County, Georgia.

  • 1832 - Dawson County is created from land formerly part of Lumpkin County.
  • Early 1800s - European settlers begin moving into the area.
  • 1840s - The Georgia Gold Rush leads to a population boom in Dawson County.
  • 1857 - The county courthouse is completed in Dawsonville.
  • Late 1800s - Dawson County's economy begins to shift from gold mining to agriculture.
  • 1890 - The railroad reaches Dawson County, promoting further economic growth.
  • Early 1900s - Dawson County experiences a decline in population and economic activity.
  • 1950s - Economic revitalization begins with the construction of the Georgia 400 highway.
  • 1970s - The outlet mall in Dawsonville attracts tourists and boosts the local economy.
  • 2005 - Dawson County High School wins the GHSA AAAAA State Football Championship.