Phone: 678-493-6400
Tax Due Date(s): October 31
Notes:
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Cherokee County, Georgia, established in 1831, derives its name from the Cherokee Nation that originally inhabited the region. Situated in the north of Georgia, it forms part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. The creation of the county played a crucial role in the infamous Trail of Tears, a series of forced relocations following the Indian Removal Act of 1830, which led to the displacement of thousands of Cherokee people.
The county began primarily as a rural area, with agriculture as the mainstay of the local economy. However, the discovery of gold in Georgia in 1828 sparked a rush that significantly affected the region, accelerating the forced removal of the Cherokee people to make land available to European settlers. As the 19th century progressed, Cherokee County transitioned into a more diverse economy, with the establishment of small industries and the expansion of agricultural pursuits beyond subsistence farming.
Entering the 20th century, Cherokee County experienced gradual industrialization, but it maintained much of its rural character. Significant growth came with the latter half of the century as part of the greater expansion of the Atlanta metropolitan area. The construction of I-575 in the 1980s facilitated easier access to Atlanta, propelling population growth and suburban development. This led to a transformation in the county’s economic landscape, shifting from its agrarian roots to a more diversified economy that included manufacturing, retail, and services.
Today, Cherokee County is characterized by a blend of suburban growth and preserved natural beauty. It offers a mix of residential communities, commercial developments, and recreational areas, including parts of the Chattahoochee National Forest and several state parks. The county’s school system is noted for its excellence, contributing to its reputation as a desirable place for families. As it continues to grow, Cherokee County remains a significant example of the dynamic interplay between urban expansion and rural tradition in the American South.