Drive north on Ga-400 and just before the divided highway ends, you will make a left turn to go to Dahlonega. This north Georgia town is the home of North Georgia College and from a historical view, the location of the first gold rush in the United States.

While the streams today still hold traces of gold, the gold industry is all but gone save for a few tourist locations in the area that allow the family to experience the excitement of panning for gold. This is especially true during the spring and summer months when the weather is hot and the kids can cool off and get wet. Everyone generally leaves with a few specks of gold and a pocket full of gemstones.

In the center of town stands the old courthouse which was built in 1836 to replace an older wood log structure. Lumpkin County was originally established in 1832, and one year later, Dahlonega was established as the county seat. The name came from the Cherokee word "Talonega" meaning golden.

In 1849, Dr. M.F. Stephen made a speech to disuade Georgia miners from leaving to join the gold rush in California. Dr. Stephens was the first to coin the phrase "Thar's gold in them their hills".

The town itself is still very active and has a special charm all it's own. There are a number of tourist and commercial businesses in operation there today. When the weather is mild, you will find a great place to walk around with the kids and enjoy the hospitality offered by the local residents.

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