Twenty years before the 1849 gold rush to California, thousands of gold seekers
flocked into the Cherokee Nation in North Georgia, beginning the nation's first
major gold rush. The towns of Auraria and Dahlonega grew and prospered with this
mining activity. Between 1838 and 1861, more than $6 million in gold was coined
by the U.S. Branch Mint in Dahlonega. The Dahlonega Gold Museum, located in the
old Lumpkin County Courthouse, offers visitors a look at the mining history of
Georgia. Gold coins minted in Dahlonega and nuggets - one weighing more than 5
ounces - are on display. A 23-minute film describes the mining techniques and
lifestyles of the prospectors through interviews with members of the long-time
mining families. Tours available daily.
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Dahlonega Attractions 
