Take the Ford and Check Out These 4 Historical Attractions Near Dahlonega, GA

Incorporated in 1833, Dahlonega is a town packed full of history. It is perhaps best known as the site of America’s first gold rush, beginning in 1829. Living in a historic town has the added benefit of being able to visit the places where history happened whenever you’d like. Here are some historical attractions near
Dahlonega, GA, that are worth a visit.

 

Dahlonega Gold Museum

Housed in one of the oldest courthouse buildings in Georgia, the Dahlonega Gold Museum tells the story of gold mining in Lumpkin County. Visitors can view mining equipment used almost 200 years ago, as well as rare coins minted right here in town. The museum also showcases features of the historic courthouse, such as the judge’s chambers and wooden chapel seats from 1889. Admission to the museum is $8.50 for adults and $6 for children.

Consolidated Gold Mine

The Consolidated Gold Mine is the only underground gold mine tour in town. The 40-minute guided tour takes you 200 feet underground to see how gold was discovered here in Georgia. Visitors will learn what life was like for miners in the 19th century. All guests will receive a free gold panning sample and gold panning instructions from award-winning panners. This is a walking tour, so be sure to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.

The 1884 Lumpkin County Jail and Museum

The 1884 Jail is now the home of the Lumpkin County Historical Society and houses a small museum displaying household items used in the 1800s and early 1900s. Visitors can also see the jail cells, which are still intact, just as they were 100 years ago. The 1884 Jail has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1985. The museum is open to the public during Dahlonega’s festivals or by special request.

Chestatee River Diving Bell

The diving bell is a pressurized, open-bottomed submersible specifically built for gold mining at the Chestatee River’s bottom. Built in 1875, the diving bell was in use for a little over a year before it disappeared, along with the boat it was tethered to. It remained at the bottom of the river for over a hundred years before it was rediscovered. The diving bell is now on display in downtown Dahlonega’s Hancock Park.

We hope you have fun and maybe even learn something when you visit these fascinating historic sites. The Ford Escape SEL Hybrid can get you there without breaking the bank. With up to 44 MPG, you don’t have to worry about high gas prices. To see how you can get into a new or used Ford Hybrid, give Chestatee Ford a call today!

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