Cherokee Indian Memorial

Historical marker location:
Calhoun, Georgia
( Marker can be reached from Georgia Route 225, ½ mile east of Newtown Church Road NE, on the right when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 1931

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Georgia was the site of the first European settlement in what is now the United States. In 1565, the Spanish established a settlement on St. Simons Island, which is now part of Georgia.
Gordon County, located in the state of Georgia, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Creek, and Shawnee. These tribes relied on hunting, fishing, and agriculture for their sustenance.

In the early 19th century, European settlers began to populate the region. In 1832, the Treaty of New Echota was signed, forcing the Cherokee Nation to give up their lands and relocate westward on the infamous Trail of Tears. This event had a profound impact on the history and development of Gordon County, as the land became available for settlement by non-Indigenous people.

The county was established in 1850 and named after William Washington Gordon, a prominent Georgia businessman and politician. The town of Calhoun was chosen as the county seat. The region quickly grew, attracting settlers from nearby states and contributing to the area's agricultural economy.

During the American Civil War, Gordon County played a significant role. The Battle of Resaca, fought in May 1864, was a major engagement of General Sherman's Atlanta Campaign. The battle resulted in heavy casualties and damage to the area, but ultimately, Union forces prevailed and took control of the county.

In the years following the war, Gordon County experienced a period of recovery and reconstruction. The industrial revolution brought economic growth to the area, with the development of railroads and the establishment of textile mills. Today, Gordon County is a vibrant community that celebrates its history while embracing progress and development.

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

  • 1832 - Gordon County is created on February 13
  • 1834 - Calhoun is established as the county seat
  • 1861-1865 - Gordon County residents participate in the American Civil War
  • 1870 - The first railroad, the W&A Railroad, reaches Calhoun
  • 1882 - The first public high school in Georgia is established in Calhoun
  • 1930s - The Great Depression affects Gordon County, leading to economic hardships
  • 1952 - The completion of the Allatoona Dam creates the Allatoona Lake, which borders Gordon County
  • 1976 - The Gordon County Historical Society is formed
  • 2005 - The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta opens in Calhoun, boosting the local economy