History
Union County was named after the Union Party, who strongly supported President Andrew Jackson for his policy of Indian removal. On Dec. 26, 1835, the Georgia General Assembly designated Union’s county seat in an act that read, “lot No. 273 of the ninth district and first section of, originally Cherokee, now Union county, and at a place now known by the name of Blairsville.” Reportedly the town’s namesake is Francis P. Blair, a prominent and influential man and a strong supporter of – you guessed it – the Union Party. Adjacent towns and counties in the area have similar ties to the Union Party that helped to support this connection.
Why You Should Go
There’s a multitude of reasons to explore Blairsville and Union County. Deep in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest and Blue Ridge Mountains you can have an experience like no other: hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Lakes Winfield Scott and Nottely offer plenty of opportunities for water sport activities. Just a short distance south of Blairsville, tourists can explore eight spectacular waterfalls and examine petroglyphs left by ancient natives in the soapstone at the Trackrock Archeological Area.
Main Attractions
* Brasstown Bald: The highest mountain peak in Georgia, Brasstown Bald has a park with a picnic area. A small observation tower near the peak offers a short documentary that explores the change of seasons and the impact of pollution on the mountain. The peak may be reached by bus or by walking from a point halfway to the top. Private vehicles are not allowed beyond this point.
http://georgiatrails.com/trails/brasstownbald.html.
* Butternut Creek Golf Course: Butternut Creek Golf Course is one of northeast Georgia's top public golf courses. Located mountainside in the heart of Blairsville, Butternut Creek is surrounded by the beauty of the North Georgia Mountains, offers breath-taking views and an exceptional experience for any golfer. Open year round, golfing enthusiasts are encouraged to visit seven days a week. www.butternutcreekgolf.com
* Chattahoochee National Forrest: This vast woodland known as the Chattahoochee National Forest encompasses nearly two-thirds of the county and boasts superbly scenic winding trails that lead visitors through mountains, rushing rivers, and cascading waterfalls. It’s one of only a handful of locations still in existence that allow you to step back in time with nature and walk where the Cherokee Indians once lived. www.blueridgemountains.com/chattahoochee_national_forest.html
How to Get There
Take I-75 North to Canton Exit 268, and continue north on Ga. 5, which turns into U.S. 76 East. Turn right at U.S. 129 and you'll be in the heart of Blairsville. The drive is 116 miles and takes about two hours from Atlanta.
Links of Interest
* Chamber of Commerce: www.blairsvillechamber.com
