About Lumpkin County, GA
In 1928, the first cry of “We’ve found Gold!” was heard in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia. With that discovery, Dahlonega emerged as the site of the first major gold strike in North America, preceding the California gold rush by 20 years. Prospectors were attracted to the gold towns of Auraria and Dahlonega in hopes of finding their fortune. Between 1838 and 1861, over $6 million in gold was coined by the U.S. Branch Mint in Dahlonega. Dahlonega thrives today while Auraria is a ghost town with only a few buildings and a handful of people remaining.
The county is now in an extremely desirable location - only 50 minutes away from Atlanta via Highway 400 and 90 minutes for Hartsfield International Airport.
From the thrill of whitewater rapids, to the peacefulness found in a wilderness sunset, the mountains and rivers of Lumpkin County offer beautiful scenery and outdoor excitement. Located northeast of Atlanta and easily accessible via Georgia 400, it has become home to many commuters anxious to escape the “rat race” of the big city.
Tourism, once the backbone of Lumpkin County’s economy, remains an important industry; however, through successful recruitment, the county has greatly diversified its economic base. Camp Frank D. Merrill Army Ranger Training Camp also contributes significantly to a healthy economy. Today, manufacturing accounts for approximately 25% of Lumpkin County’s employment, with a diversity of products shipped to domestic and international markets. Poultry production, forestry, education, health care, financial sources, and construction are the major local employers.
Dahlonega, the county seat for Lumpkin County, was founded by hard working people who established churches, schools, newspapers, and businesses thus making Dahlonega a solid place to live and raise a family. That legacy continues today in this wholesome mountain county.
Founded in 1873, North Georgia College and University has an outstanding reputation for academic and military excellence. For more than 100 years, it has provided an outstanding opportunity for education, growth, leadership and tradition. The beautiful campus includes 195 acres including a planetarium, laboratory and classroom facilities, large computer labs with state-of-the-art equipment, a fine arts center and a school of business. The College routinely posts the highest entering freshman SAT scores, and the best retention and graduation rates of all the senior colleges in the University system. In addition, there is a graduate program offered.
