This is well-known around Gainesville as a rental sign. Gainesville High School’s sports teams are known as the Red Elephants, a moniker they’ve had since the 1920s. They are the only high school in the country with this mascot.
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Ridgeway Baptist Church, Circa 1865, Gilmer County
Ridgeway Baptist is one of the most historic congregations in Gilmer County and the original log church building, dating to around the end of the Civil War, is perhaps the most unique survivor in Gilmer County. Thanks to Sonny Seals of Historic Rural Churches of Georgia for bringing this special place to my attention.
Church members have worked hard to preserve this little log chapel and their effort speaks volumes to their commitment to history. Though the structure is showing its age, I like to think it will be around for many years to come.
A new church, built in 1982, is located across the road from the old chapel.
Filed under --GILMER COUNTY GA--
CCC Fire Tower, 1935, Fort Mountain
In 2014-2015, the iconic stone fire lookout tower constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps camp 468 (SP-6) was restored by the state as part of the interpretive plan at Fort Mountain State Park. The tower was used until the early 1960s when it was replaced by a steel tower on a nearby mountain. In 1971, the cupola burned and the tower fell into disrepair.
National Register of Historic Places
Filed under --MURRAY COUNTY GA--
Rock Formations, Fort Mountain
As you make your way up the short but vigorous trail to the top of Fort Mountain you will encounter scattered rocks of varying sizes. It helps you aunderstand the availability of material that lead to the construction of the rock wall the mountain is known for.
It has an otherworldly feel and I found it as fascinating on a recent trip as I did when I visited as a child.
National Register of Historic Places
Filed under --MURRAY COUNTY GA--
Rock Wall, Fort Mountain
Located near the summit of Fort Mountain, the rock wall which gives the mountain its name remains a mystery. Its origin has been attributed to everyone from Hernando de Soto to the Cherokee. The de Soto connection has long been disproved but the specific use by the Cherokee is still being researched. Some believe it was ceremonial while others consider it territorial.
Filed under --MURRAY COUNTY GA--
