Fannin County Courthouse
Jct. of W. Main and Summit Sts., Blue Ridge, GA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
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.
The famous Coca-Cola soft drink was invented in Georgia in 1886 by pharmacist John Pemberton.
Following the removal of the Cherokee, European settlers began to flock to the region. Fannin County was officially established in 1854 and named after Colonel James Fannin, a hero of the Texas Revolution. The county quickly grew, with agriculture and mining becoming crucial to the local economy. Timber was also a significant industry, with sawmills popping up throughout the county.
The Civil War had a significant impact on Fannin County, as it did on the rest of the South. The area was divided, with some residents supporting the Confederacy and others remaining loyal to the Union. The Battle of Blue Ridge, a small skirmish, took place in the county in 1864. Although not particularly significant in the larger context of the war, it represented the ongoing struggles faced by the community during this turbulent period.
In the 20th century, Fannin County transitioned into a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities. The completion of the Blue Ridge Dam in 1930 created Lake Blue Ridge, providing additional opportunities for fishing and boating. Today, Fannin County continues to thrive as a tourist destination, attracting visitors with its stunning natural landscapes, charming small towns, and rich history.
Fannin County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Fannin County, Georgia.
- 1833: Fannin County is established by the Georgia General Assembly.
- Late 1830s: First settlers begin to arrive in Fannin County.
- 1840: The county's first courthouse is completed.
- 1854: The Atlanta and North Carolina Railroad starts operating in Fannin County.
- 1861-1865: Fannin County residents fight in the American Civil War.
- 1875: The county's second courthouse is constructed.
- 1899: The Blue Ridge Railway starts serving Fannin County.
- 1902: The Blue Ridge Inn, a renowned hotel, opens its doors.
- 1930s: The federal government initiates the construction of Lake Blue Ridge in Fannin County.
- 2007: The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway opens, attracting tourists to Fannin County.
- 2010s: Fannin County experiences significant growth in its tourism industry.