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If you're shopping for a subcompact crossover SUV, the latest Ford EcoSport is a good option in the segment. It's well-equipped, affordable, and visually appealing, making it a top choice among those who are buying on a budget. S Trim The base trim level of the 2020 Ford EcoSport is S. It comes equipped with 16.0-inch alloy wheels, integrated blind-spot mirrors in the side mirrors, and automatic headlights as its key exterior features. Within the cabin, you'll find cloth upholstery, height-adjustable front seats, a cargo cover, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and 60/40-split rear seats. On the tech side, features include a rearview camera, a six-speaker audio system with dual USB ports, a 4.2-inch central display screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Similar to the other trim levels, the 2020 Ford EcoSport S comes standard with a 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that generates 125 pound-feet of torque and 123 horsepower. Ford pairs this engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. SE Trim The next option is the SE trim level, which has a few more comfort and convenience features than the S. From the outside, you'll notice the rear privacy glass, fog lights, LED running lights, sunroof, and windshield wiper de-icer. The cabin also has heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, upgraded cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, and an adjustable cargo floor panel. more Additional tech features on this vehicle include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, satellite radio, and an 8.0-inch touch screen with Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system. This model also comes with rear parking sensors for improved safety. SES Trim If you want a sportier model, take a look at the SES trim level. This model has a sport-tuned suspension, heated side mirrors, 17.0-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, automatic windshield wipers, and black exterior styling accents. Climb inside to find a seven-speaker sound system, a 110-volt household-style power outlet, navigation, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery with cloth inserts, and a heated steering wheel. Each SES trim also sports blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert as standard features. You can further upgrade the appearance of the SES trim level with the optional Black Appearance package. This tacks on black elements, including a hood decal, roof, and rear spoiler. Under the hood of this elegant model is a relatively more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 149 pound-feet of torque and 166 horsepower, working in tandem with a six-speed automatic transmission as well. You can upgrade any of the other three trim levels to include this engine. Titanium Trim In case luxury is your main desire, the top Titanium trim is the 2020 Ford EcoSport model for you. This well-equipped vehicle has chrome exterior trim with complementary metallic bumper accents and its own set of 17.0-inch wheels. Interior enhancements include a premium 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen Play audio system with HD radio, leather upholstery, and a heated steering wheel. Visit Chestatee Ford to take the 2020 Ford EcoSport for a test drive. We have models available in the four trim levels, allowing you to decide which vehicle is the best fit for your lifestyle. Image via ford.com

Image via Ford.com There are many features that off-roaders enjoy about the brand-new, 2020 F-150 Raptor. Check out a few of the top features that have made it one of the top off-roading vehicles of the year. more Impressive Power A good amount of power is needed to fuel off-roading trips and the F-150 Raptor can easily keep up. It is equipped with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo engine with 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a SelectShift automatic transmission with features that even out the power to all four wheels. Equipped with a 4X4 powertrain, you can expect capable power output. Durable Design While the performance and off-roading features certainly make a difference when choosing an off-roading vehicle, the exterior design is also important. You want your brand-new vehicle to maintain its value and modern look for as long as possible, after all. The Ford F-150 Raptor is designed with a durable exterior that is made up of high-strength materials that can withstand the most difficult of conditions. With a recognizable Ford grille and modern lines, it is also a stylish choice. The 17.0-inch wheels are durable enough to help you tackle most terrain types. You will also find an accommodating truck bed on the back of the 2020 F-150 Raptor. With ample cargo space and a tailgate with a lifted suspension, you can easily bring along all your favorite off-roading accessories or pack for an upcoming camping trip along your route. The power lock and remote release features will also help you keep your truckbed stored items secure. Off-Road-Ready Performance With Fox shocks and an upgraded suspension system, the F-150 Raptor is ready to tackle your most difficult off-roading trips. Whether you're maneuvering your way over rocks or large dirt piles, you will find it effortless in this powerfully capable truck.  The 2020 Raptor also comes with a new feature that is sure to improve your off-roading adventures, the Trail Control feature. This means that you can take advantage of the vehicle's four-wheel-drive system while relying on it to give you just enough power for the current road conditions. This is a great feature for both more experienced off-roaders and also drivers who are newer to the fun and excitement of off-roading. Reliable Safety Safety features that you can count on are important as you explore the open road. The 2020 F-150 Raptor comes with a long list of standard and available safety features. Just a few of the standard features that you can expect include the forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, rear parking sensors, curve control, and a rearview camera feature. A tire pressure monitoring system and upgraded LED lights also improve safety in the Ford F-150. 2020 Raptor drivers can also choose additional safety features like a surround-view 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control with stop and go. With impressive power capabilities, a high-strength durable design, off-road-ready performance, and reliable safety features, the Ford Raptor is one of the top off-roading vehicles in the market. Calls us today to take the adventure-ready 2020 Ford F-150 Raptor for a test drive.

Image Via Pexels.com Summer weather may open up a world of cookouts and weekend warrior trips for us normally, but for our vehicles, it's not as fun. The heat of summer brings can cause damage to our vehicles, bringing the good vibes of the season down for us. Here are a few of the ways heat impacts your car and how you can protect your ride from it: more Tires As the sun beats down on your tires and the roads they sit on, it can cause damage to them. Tires have natural oils that keep them pliable and able to take a punch. Too much sun and heat can dry your tires out, making them more brittle and susceptible to blowouts. If your tires are improperly inflated, the potential for blow-outs is increased. Even if your tires were properly inflated before the weather turned hot, the air pressure in them can increase as the gas inside expands. To combat this, make a habit of taking measurements of your tires' psi levels to ensure they're at the correct level. Try to park in shaded areas and keep an eye on your tires' sidewalls for signs of warping or other structural damage. Paint Harmful UV rays from the sun are both detrimental to skin and your vehicle's paint job. These rays can cause your paint to lose its color, dulling down your vehicle's appearance. To avoid this, apply a coat of wax to your vehicle's exterior after your visits to the car wash. These coats don't just make your car look good, but they also act as a shield between your car's paint and the sun. You can also invest in a car cover if you don't have access to a shady parking area. Engine The worst possible damage heat can cause is to your vehicle's engine. Your engine gets very hot as it does its job, and it's up to coolant to keep it from overheating. During the winter, we call coolant 'antifreeze,' but it's the same thing throughout the year. Low levels of coolant can leave your engine without a way to cool down as it works, causing it to heat up and potentially damage itself. If you let your engine run without a proper coolant, it's not a question of if it will be damaged, but when. Make sure your car has enough coolant to keep it functioning. This is an easy task you should perform at least at the beginning of every summer and winter. Gas Excessive heat can also damage your fuel economy. High temperatures cause gasoline to evaporate faster than it does in the winter, leading to lower fuel efficiency. This problem is somewhat inevitable, but you can reduce the rate at which your gasoline evaporates by parking your car in the shade, or preferably in a cool garage. Keep these dangers in mind as you drive through your summer days. Protect your vehicle from the damages summer heat can cause to prolong the life of your car and your wallet.

Image via Ford.com The Ford Mustang has long been the pinnacle of the American muscle car world. If you need proof, check out all the celebrities who love to sit behind the wheel of their Mustang. From young pop stars to household-name actors, everyone wants to experience the style and power of a Mustang. Here is just a sample of the many celebrities who drive Ford Mustangs: more Jay Leno Of course former late-night talk show host Jay Leno drives a Mustang. Leno is well-known for his love of cars, which has left him with a car collection of over 100 vehicles. In that collection is a 1965 Mustang Shelby GT350 and a 2013 Mustang GT500. Leno has gone on record with his love for the Shelby name, and his '65 Shelby is one of his prized possessions. Any vehicle that gets the Leno seal of approval is worth checking out. Tim Allen There is a video of actor Tim Allen competing with Jay Leno in a burnout contest that stands as a testament to his love for the Mustang name. In his garage, Allen is hiding a 1968 Shelby GT500 KR that's highly modified for maximum performance. Tom Cruise Actor Tom Cruise has a couple of the rarest Mustangs in his collection. Two Ford Mustang Saleen S281s are some of the greatest in his garage. Saleen is a company that specializes in performance modifications for sports cars. Saleen vehicles are highly prized, and very difficult to acquire. Liam Hemsworth Liam Hemsworth owns one of our favorite celebrity Mustangs: a 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1. His Mustang has a classic paint job you don't see with new muscle cars very often anymore: a glossy teal with a black-painted hood and retro stripes along the sides. Even with his beau Miley Cyrus using this Mustang as a photoshoot backdrop from time to time, we love the look of this classic American icon. Bruce Willis Bruce Willis is the proud owner of a green 1968 Ford Mustang GT500. It makes sense that one of the biggest action movie stars ever would drive one of the toughest cars ever manufactured. He put this particular Mustang up for auction in 2008, when it sold for $161,000. Charlie Sheen Even Charlie Sheen has a Mustang — specifically, a convertible 1966 Ford Mustang GT and a 1968 Shelby. The '66 Mustang GT is a beautiful relic with a fire-engine red paint job and two black racing stripes down the center. However, he put this Mustang up for auction in 2011 to support a charity. The Mustang didn't sell, as it only got a bid for $100,000, and according to Sheen, it would take $300,000 to make another one like it. It was highly customized with NASCAR upgrades, as well as others. When you're ready to join the ranks of celebrities who drive Mustangs, come see us at ChestateeFord.com. We can provide you with the Mustang part — the celebrity status you'll have to get on your own.

Image Via Ford.com Ford is bringing one of its most beloved models back to the lineup in the near future. The two-door Bronco is coming, and here's what we know about it so far. more History of the Original Bronco In 1966, Ford released its original SUV, the Bronco, cutting a trail to the outdoors in a groundbreaking way. Buyers embraced this new offering, taking it out on their adventures and using it to tow heavy loads. The original version showcased a square body style with a backseat that offered enough space for passengers along with an oversized front grille. In 1969, the Bronco was featured in the Mexican 1000, an on-road and off-road rally that featured high-performance driving and stunning scenery. The SUV actually won the grueling race, which was a feat that no four-wheel-drive vehicle has been able to replicate. It's clear that the Ford Bronco has an impressive history, and Ford plans to continue this by releasing a new version of the beloved SUV. Expected Debut Date Ford hasn't made any major announcement as to when we can expect the Bronco to become available, aside from its plan to undergo a world premiere in the spring of 2020. It may come out at the New York Auto Show in April, but for now, we can take a look at the photos of prototypes that have been spotted in various areas around the country. Most of the photos feature the Bronco prototype climbing over steep terrain and even taking jumps with its wheels off the ground. Off-Roading Capability The two-door version of the Bronco is especially appealing to adventurous off-roading enthusiasts. It will likely compete with the Jeep Wrangler in terms of capability, although the photos show that it may be more suited to climbing over sand dunes rather than crawling over steep rocks. In all of its discussions about the upcoming Bronco, Ford is showing it off as a rally car. However, its body styling and features will likely make it appealing to those who want to tackle all types of terrain. In one of the prototype photos, auto experts spotted a set of 35-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires, which are large and able to crawl over just about anything you can find. The underside of the Bronco also features a large skid plate that will protect the powertrain, suspension, and steering components. The front suspension appears to be completely independent, while the rear solid axle showcased a few lower control arms that hang below the rest of the body. Although the Bronco may still change from what we see in the prototype, it's clear that Ford is working to create an off-road-ready model for buyers in this segment. If you're interested in getting behind the wheel of a two-door Ford Bronco, visit Chestatee Ford. We have a wide selection of all the newest models available, and we'll have Bronco models on our lot as soon as possible. For now, we'll keep watching for photos that give us a sneak peek of what we can expect from this highly anticipated SUV.

Image Via Ford.com Ford has a new model in its lineup, and it's an option that could change the way you shop for vehicles. The Mustang Mach-E is being released in Europe first and will appear on U.S lots sometime in the fourth quarter of 2020. Take a look at what makes this vehicle so groundbreaking. more Part of an Iconic Lineup The Mustang has been an iconic member of Ford's lineup for decades, and it's been an extremely popular model among sports car and performance-focused buyers. However, a disconnect has been present between those who want great performance and sporty features but aren't willing to sacrifice efficiency. This is an area where the Mustang Mach-E will fill in the gap. This zero-emissions vehicle is still thrilling and appealing yet allows you to cut your carbon footprint. Sporty Styling From the outside, you'd never know the Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric model. It looks like a sleek and stylish crossover SUV, although it boasts many of the performance elements that you can find in a traditional Mustang. Exact specs are yet to come, although the pre-production model shows off rounded curves, a unique front end with LED lighting, and eye-catching accents. When you build your 2020 Mach-E, you can choose from unique color options, including Rapid Red, Infinite Blue, Star White, Carbonized Gray, Shadow Black, Iconic Silver, and Space White. High-End Tech Staying connected is an important aspect for any driver, as well as for their passengers. The connected, seamless tech features make it easy to enjoy your driving experience. From the moment you arrive at the vehicle, the driver profile and personalization functionality recognizes you and automatically adjusts the mirrors, seats, lighting, infotainment system, and instrument panel, based on your presets. You can also alter your driving experience to fit your mood, whether you want whisper, engage, or unbridled. Ford also released the next generation of its SYNC infotainment system, which includes user-friendly and intuitive features that match what you're used to seeing on your smartphone or tablet. It's also easy to personalize your settings. Options include a customizable cluster screen, over-the-air updates that connect via a modem, a premium 15.5-inch touch screen, and cloud-based navigation. Innovative Safety The safety features of the Mustang Mach-E are certainly appealing, especially to those who frequently transport precious cargo. Every model will come equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360 technology, a suite of features that can help you feel confident and in command. The package includes pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, a lane-keeping system, automatic high beams, post-collision braking, a reverse sensing system with brake assist, and a rearview camera. Additional options include intelligent adaptive cruise control, navigation, evasive steering assist, a 360-degree camera, and active park assist. With these features on your 2021 Mustang Mach-E, you can handle any driving conditions that may arise. At Chestatee Ford, we're as excited about the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E as our customers are, so talk to our team members to get on the waiting list for this highly anticipated new model. When it becomes available in the U.S., we'll have one for you to test drive as soon as possible.

Image Via Pexels.com When you have a craving for a sweet treat, check out a few of the top dessert shops and bakeries located in the Dahlonega, Georgia, area. Each location offers its own unique selection of tasty options along with a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy your treat. more Country Bake Shoppe The Country Bake Shoppe is on Helen Highway in Cleveland, which is about 19 miles outside of Dahlonega. Locals call it a hidden gem thanks to the extensive selection of baked goods all made by hand. It's a small shop run by Amish bakers, and the atmosphere is clean and appealing. You can sample cakes, pies, bread, cinnamon rolls, homemade granola, cupcakes, ice cream, jams and jellies, and more. The bakery also serves custom-made sandwiches on their homemade bread. If you like the sweet tang of key lime, try one of the treats made with this flavor, such as a key lime cookie or creme that will melt in your mouth. Truelove Celebrations Truelove Celebrations is another local bakery, situated in nearby Gainesville. Options include all types of baked goods, although the shop is best known for its selection of cupcakes and cakes for special occasions. If you want to order a custom cake, be aware that the bakery is in high demand and may stop taking orders for the holiday season as early as August. Some of the most popular cake and cupcake flavors include chocolate fudge, Italian cream, red velvet, key lime, chocolate covered strawberry, and coconut. In addition to the selection of sweet treats, this bakery also serves savory foods as well. Enjoy a bowl of soup, a sandwich served on house-baked bread, or even an order of old-fashioned Southern cheese straws. It's open on weekdays from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m. Hofer's of Helen Hofer's of Helen is a bakery, cafe, and Konditorei (a German word for confectionary and pastry shop). No matter what you're craving, you'll find it on their extensive menu. As soon as you walk in the door, you'll be greeted with the scent of freshly baked bread and rolls, many of which are prepared with traditional German recipes. The bakery is open daily from 8 a.m. until 5 or 5 p.m., while the café serves breakfast between 8 and 11 a.m. and lunch between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The cafe has the ambiance of an authentic German eatery, featuring imported furniture and a beautiful mural. On the breakfast menu, you'll find all the traditional favorites, many of which are served with house-made baked goods. You can also enjoy sandwiches, salads, and soups during the lunch hour. Be sure to save room for dessert, as options include cream puffs, apple strudel, cheesecake cups, eclairs, tortes with different fillings, and other tasty treats. Your sweet tooth will certainly appreciate a visit to one of these bakeries in the Dahlonega area. Stop by and pick up a treat to enjoy or dine-in to sample some of the freshly baked goods available at each spot.

Image Via Pexels.com If you're up for an adventure, you don't have to travel too far outside of Dahlonega, Georgia. With hiking and walking trails nearby, it's easy to find new uncharted territory to explore as you get some exercise. more Appalachian Trail The Appalachian Trail runs between Springer Mountain and Bly Gap, which is about 80 miles in length. It actually leaves the state of Georgia at the northern border, where it ends in North Carolina. Near the Georgia state line, you'll see a gnarled old oak tree. The views along this trail are incredible, especially if you have the ability to climb Cowrock and the Blood Mountains to take a peek from each summit. If you're looking for the best views, stick to the southern part of the trail. You can also spend the night at any of the numerous campsites located along the edges of the Appalachian Trail. Other must-see spots include the Plum Orchard shelter and the impressive waterfall at Dicks Creek Falls. The terrain is often hilly, so it's best for those with moderate hiking experience. Benton MacKaye Trail Benton MacKaye Trail is named for a regional planner and forester who actually proposed the Appalachian Trail many years ago. His proposed trail runs along the Appalachian Mountains' eastern crest, while the trail named for him is on the opposite side, following the mountains' western crest. It is quite steep at some parts, beginning at Springer Mountain near the trailhead for the Appalachian Trail. In several areas, the trails actually converge and share the same path. About a mile past a footbridge over Chester Creek, the trail takes a sharp left turn, which is where it parts from the Appalachian Trail for 250 miles. Not all of the land along Benton MacKaye Trail is protected, so depending on how far you go and where you start, you could walk along roads with heavy traffic or even go through neighborhoods of vacation homes. Amicalola Falls State Park Located in Dawsonville, Georgia, Amicalola Falls State Park is another appealing place to hike. It's about 20 miles outside of Dahlonega, but it's well worth the trip, as the park features incredible scenery and challenging trails. A guided hike is available that takes you up the famous Appalachian Approach Trail, where you can see the state's tallest waterfall. The trail guide will talk about the history of Amicalola as well as help you identify some of the main species of animals that live within the wooded area. In addition to hiking trails, the park features plenty of other activities for visitors. Take part in a 3D archery experience, where you'll learn to use a compound bow, fly high over the treetops on a zipline, or even test your skills at a survival camp, where you'll learn to build a fire and plan for a primitive trip into the wilderness. Check out these top trails in the Dahlonega area, where you can see beautiful natural scenery and take advantage of the pleasant climate. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to have a fun, outdoorsy adventure.

Image Via Ford.com Ford has been building work-ready trucks for ages. The model that keeps coming back to impress year after year, however, is the SuperDuty. In 2020 you can expect to see some exciting changes. Want to know what's new with the 2020 Ford SuperDuty? Keep reading. more Upgraded Technology The 2020 Ford SuperDuty has an available upgraded 9-inch productivity screen. The LCD screen functions flawlessly and comes with impressive connectivity and accessibility options. With the My View option, you can see up to seven screens and can access it with the buttons on the steering wheel. You can also access your trailer, towing, and off-road information. The SYNC 3 technology system comes as a standard feature. This voice-activated system is as responsive as it is useful. You'll also find an easy-to-use touch screen with a sleek interface that anyone can navigate. There's also an available SYNC 3 Nav with navigation so you won't get lost out on the road. Off-Road Options A few off-road options definitely deserve a mention. With the Tremor Off-Road Package, you'll get features to make your driving experience even better, no matter where you are. You get 35-inch maximum traction tires, an off-road-tuned suspension setup, and special handling features such as Rock Crawl and Trail Control modes. The truck gains an extra 2 inches of clearance, new shocks, and a locking rear differential, as well. It can clear water crossings up to 33 inches deep. Driver Assistance Features Ford offers several safety options to help you get from one destination to the next. You'll find features such as the blind spot information system with trailer coverage, lane-keeping alert, pro-trailer backup assist, and automatic high beam headlamps. You'll enjoy the rearview camera, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, and hill descent control. You can drive confidently with the added reassurance these features provide. Brand New Engine Option Under the 2020 SuperDuty's hood is a brand new engine design. The 7.3-liter OHV PFI Gas V-8 engine has a pushrod design and optimal power. Enjoy up to 430 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. The engine itself has been called one of the largest, most powerful gas engines on the market. It's durable and powerful, yet not all-out gas-guzzling. Interior Comfort This impressive heavy-duty truck comes with great interior features, as well. The F-250 King Ranch has dual-zone automatic temperature control, an antique effect leather heated steering wheel, and unique King Ranch seating finishes. Inside the F-350 Limited, you'll notice features such as two-toned leather seating with heat and ventilation in the front, a premium  Bang and Olufsen sound system, and power-adjustable pedals. Most likely, your comfort is just as important as the engine features when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle, and rest assured, this truck won't let you down. If you want to try the 2020 Ford SuperDuty for yourself, stop by Chestatee Ford. A member of our knowledgeable sales staff team would love to answer any questions you have or get you set up for a test drive.

Image Via Ford.com Find the fun in Ford's new 2020 EcoSport. With a plethora of impressive features coming standard on the base model, this won't be a challenge. Designed to help you move freely from one place to another, this compact SUV and its intelligent four-wheel-drive system are perfect for those looking to maneuver across new terrain. Here are a few reasons we think you should experience the fun behind the wheel of the Ford EcoSport. more From Daily Commute to Daily Getaway The 2020 EcoSport isn't just the SUV you buy for your daily grind, it's also a vehicle that makes you want to get in and go. It exudes comfort and elegance with its stylish exterior as well as available interior amenities such as leather-trimmed seats. Crafted with the driver in mind, the EcoSport isn't just a heavy hitter in the cosmetics department. Sporting practical features such as an 8-inch LCD touch screen, a power moonroof, and ambient lighting, it's easy to see how your commute can become a getaway. Keeping practicality the name of the game, there's also the unique rear swing gate and LED lighting with halogen projector headlamps. Room for Fun The 2020 EcoSport will get you where you need to go in style and comfort. Despite being a compact SUV, the EcoSport is still capable of hauling five adults and a hefty amount of cargo. If you're looking for extra room in the back, the EcoSport and it's 60/40 flip-up and fold-flat rear seats provide anywhere from 20.9 to 50 cubic feet, depending on the configuration you choose. Whether it be extra friends or extra cargo, this vehicle is more than capable of getting everything to your destination. Safety Features You Can Rely On The 2020 EcoSport comes standard with Ford's intelligent four-wheel-drive, which automatically adds traction if the driver should need it. In addition, the EcoSport comes with Ford Co-Pilot 360 technology. Part of the Co-Pilot package is the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), a feature that helps you switch lanes. No longer will you have to bug your passengers by asking if they see any nearby cars during lane changes. BLIS will help detect any vehicles in your blind spot and alert you that they're there. In addition, cross-traffic alert is capable of detecting traffic behind the vehicle while you're backing out of a driveway or a parking spot. Another feature of the Co-Pilot package is the rearview camera to assist in backing up. An added washer helps the camera lens remain free of debris. Rounding out the Co-Pilot package is the navigation system, helping you stay confidently on course, find a place to grab a bite to eat, or locate the nearest gas station. All in all, the 2020 EcoSport is a great compact SUV for anyone looking to upgrade the quality of not only their daily commute but also their life behind the wheel. If you're interested in making these upgrades, you can learn more about the 2020 Ford EcoSport here at Chestatee Ford.

Image Via Pexels.com Whether you live in Dahlonega or you're just visiting, the area's rich history is sure to intrigue you. To learn more about the town's past, visit some of these excellent historic sites that will provide you with a better understanding of the area and the people that helped it become what it is today. more Dahlonega Gold Museum The Dahlonega Gold Museum is housed in one of Georgia's oldest standing courthouses, which in itself makes this place worth visiting for history lovers. The Cherokee Nation in Georgia is the first true gold rush site in the country. Long before prospectors arrived in California, they flocked to this area in search of their fortune. In 1838 the U.S. Branch Mint opened and coined over $6 million in gold before closing its doors. Today, visitors can see rare coins, a nugget weighing over 5 ounces, and a film telling the story of the gold rush. You can also explore the courthouse and some of the artifacts related to its history. This museum is on the National Register of Historic Places, so an elevator to the second floor cannot be added, making it inaccessible to those in a wheelchair. However, there's plenty to see on the grounds and first floor to make it well worth visiting. Take the Ghost Tour The 2012 Class of Leadership in Lumpkin County created the Dahlonega Self-Guided Haunts Tour to help visitors and residents alike explore the rich ghost lore of the town. There are two famous photographs of ghosts that Dahlonega is known for, which was part of the inspiration behind creating this fun and spooky self-guided tour. You'll encounter 10 stops that will provide you with both historical information and stories that have been passed on over the years to residents. Some of the stops include Park Place Hotel, where you'll learn about mysterious moving dishes at the Fred Jones Building, where you'll hear about its namesake's unexplained death, and you might encounter ghost in the balcony at the Holly Theater. A few of the other tour locations are Mount Hope Cemetery, the Butler Building, and the Picnic Cafe. Chestatee River Diving Bell If you want to see an extremely rare artifact that may, in fact, be the only one of its kind, you're going to want to make a trip to Hancock Park at Hawkins Street. This is where you'll find the Chestatee River Diving Bell. The bell was originally used by divers to help them breath underwater while they scanned the bottom of rivers. It was first brought to Georgia in 1875 by an entrepreneur and inventor by the name of Philologus Loud. Later, a Southern Express wagon brought it to Dahlonega. A year after its arrival, the ship that was carrying it sank and the bell remained underwater until it was rediscovered in 1983. After its restoration in 2003, it made its way back to Dahlonega where it can now be appreciated by residents and visitors alike. When you're looking for a fun place to learn about history, check out one of these Dahlonega historic sites.