5 Favorite Landmarks in Calhoun

Calhoun, GA is brimming with history and nature. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there is always something new to learn when you’re in Calhoun. Step back in time as you visit a former Native American community, or soak up the fresh air and sunshine in one of the many parks that surround the area.

New Echota

Did you know that New Echota was where the first Native American newspaper was printed? That it was one of the first experiments of national autonomy by an Indian tribe? That it was the official starting point of the tragic Trail of Tears? Calhoun residents often take visitors to this State Historic Site. New Echota was the capital of the Cherokee Nation from 1825 until the 1830s, when they were forced out through the Trail of Tears.

Visitors can step back in time as they walk through the Council House, courthouse, print shop, a store from 1805, smokehouses, Samuel Worcester’s home, and other buildings. There is also a nature trail that you can follow to New Town Creek and a beaver pond.

Resaca Battlefield Historic Site

History buffs will want to visit Resaca Battlefield, a 484-acre park. Walk the six-mile trail that takes you through the site of the first major battle of Sherman’s Atlanta Campaign. Along the way you can view forts from the Confederate and Union Armies, original artillery, and informational signs dotted throughout the trail. Admission is free and pets are welcome with a leash.

The ROCK Garden

The ROCK Garden is completely built and maintained by volunteers. It sits in the back of the Calhoun Seventh-Day Adventist Church and was originally started by a church member. But the garden is free and open for the public to enjoy. Step into a fairytale world of castles, cathedrals, cottages, and more—all made from pebbles, shells, ceramic tiles, broken glass, and other materials. There are about 50 miniature constructions in all. Tiny people and animals greet you from the windows as you pass by. This a must-see for those with children.

GEM Theatre

Calhoun’s GEM Theatre is a community landmark first built in 1927. It closed in the late 1970s and didn’t open again until 2011, after a historic restoration. It looks like a 1930s building, but has all of the technology of a state-of-the-art entertainment facility. The 461-seat theatre hosts regular plays, concerts, and movies. In 2012 it was awarded by the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation Rehabilitation.

Carters Lake

Carters Lake is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains and about 35 minutes from Calhoun. It is a man-made lake featuring 62 miles of undeveloped shoreline and 3,200 acres of water. Visitors come here to fish, water ski, hike, camp, and go mountain biking. Pets are welcome in the park, as long as they are leashed.