25 LC 112 3203
House Resolution 471
By: Representatives Wade of the 9
th
and Hawkins of the 27
th
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing the historical significance of the 1911 Rand McNally map of Lumpkin County,
1
Georgia; and for other purposes.2
WHEREAS, the 1911 Rand McNally map of Lumpkin County, Georgia, provides a valuable3
historical snapshot of the region's geography, infrastructure, and cultural landmarks as they4
existed in the early 20th century; and5
WHEREAS, this map includes references to significant local features such as the town of6
Auraria, established in 1832 during Georgia's first gold rush, which briefly served as the7
county seat and was a bustling center for gold mining activities; over time, its prominence8
declined, and today it is considered a ghost town with only a few remaining structures; and9
WHEREAS, the map also highlights other communities that were once integral to the10
county's social and economic fabric but have since diminished or disappeared, including11
Porter Springs, a thriving health resort in the late 1800s and early 1900s known for its12
mineral springs; and13
WHEREAS, the map illustrates the layout of early transportation networks, including14
roadways and settlements that shaped the development of small towns and rural communities15
H. R. 471
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within Lumpkin County, such as Wahoo, which had a population of 55 in 1900, and Grace,
16
both of which were principal trading points in the region less than 10 miles from Dahlonega;17
and18
WHEREAS, many of the communities, settlements, and named locations on the map reflect19
a way of life that has since evolved due to industrialization, urbanization, and shifts in20
economic and social structures—even the towns of Stay and Tworun, once known as fertile21
regions, saw opportunities dry up and shift toward Dahlonega; and22
WHEREAS, preserving and recognizing this historical cartographic record allows for a23
deeper appreciation of the county's heritage and provides insight into how landscapes such24
as Duke's Creek and its yellow metal in 1828 shaped the area and the state; and25
WHEREAS, the study and commemoration of these lost landmarks contribute to the broader26
understanding of Georgia's small-town history and the forces that shaped its development27
throughout the 20th century.28
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that29
the members of this body recognize the historical significance of the 1911 Rand McNally30
map of Lumpkin County, Georgia, and encourage further efforts to document, study, and31
educate the public about the county's evolving geography and cultural legacy.32
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized33
and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the34
public and the press.35
H. R. 471
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