Euharlee Welcome Center & History Museum
Euharlee Welcome Center & History Museum
Presbyterian Cemetery
This cemetery was orignally for the members of the Presbyterian Church but there are members of the Oak Grove Methodist Church that are interred here before they had their own churchyard. Over time the Presbyterian & Baptist Churches came together to expand the cemetery and today it includes members of both churches as well as other members of the community and their families. The earliest burial is that of the child of Mr. & Mrs. Pinson 1854. The marker was most likely placed some years after the burial took place and is located about 20 ft from the east side of the church.
Euharlee Presbyterian Church
The history of the Euharlee Presbyterian Church is a testament to the enduring spirit of community, faith, and resilience. It all began on December 17, 1853, when a petition granted by the Presbytery of Cherokee led to the founding of this cherished institution. The first members, including William Templeton, R. Templeton, Washington Templeton, Eliza Jane Franks, J. Robinson, Cornelia Elizabeth Terry, Martha E. Ligon, W.L. Kirkpatrick, Riley Milam and Martha Milam, Mary Milam, Charles Sproull (elder), Frances Sproull, Elizabeth Sproull, and Emily Sproull, embarked on a journey of faith and fellowship under the guidance of Rev. Richard Milner.As the church took root in the community, it became a beacon of inclusivity and unity. Members from South Carolina, particularly from the Liberty Springs & Rocky Springs congregations, joined the fold, enriching the congregation with their diverse backgrounds and shared devotion. Many of the founding families had established relationships and connections before arriving in Euharlee, fostering a sense of kinship and camaraderie within the church.A notable aspect of the Euharlee Presbyterian Church was its recognition of the enslaved community as members of the congregation. Unlike many places of worship at that time, the church acknowledged these individuals by name rather than relegating them to mere hash marks. Early members included Rinah Sproull, William Sproull, Hal & Chaney Milam, Frances Milam and her children, Zilpah Tinsley, Adaline Speers and her children, Milly Taylor, Harry Milam, Charlotte Speers and her children, Malinda Franks, William Barto, Amica Cary, Sarah Templeton, and Elcy Sproull. Following the end of the Civil War, many of these members chose to worship elsewhere, exercising their newfound freedom to worship as they pleased. However, the Euharlee Presbyterian Church remained integrated, with freed individuals such as Martha (surname unknown), Nick and Pat Yancy, Caroline Hale, and Dorothy Ferguson continuing to worship as members of the congregation.The construction of the Greek Revival style wooden sanctuary in 1855 marked a significant milestone for the church, showcasing its commitment to providing a sacred space for worship and community gatherings. Master builders John W. Clayton and Stephen Glazener played pivotal roles in bringing this vision to life, leaving a lasting architectural legacy in Southwest Bartow County.Education was another cornerstone of the church's mission, leading to the establishment of the Euharlee Presbyterian Institute in 1896. This institution, located within walking distance of the church, served as a hub for learning and community engagement, reflecting the church's dedication to the holistic well-being of its members and the local community.The cemetery adjacent to the church grounds became a resting place for many of Euharlee's most notable residents, including founding families whose legacies were intertwined with the church's history. Over the decades, the church experienced periods of growth and vitality, with attendance booming from the 1850s to the 1930s. Records show that between 1850 and 1900, approximately 400 new members were welcomed into the congregation, highlighting its significant impact on the community.However, challenges emerged with the onset of the Great Depression, leading to a decline in both population and congregation size. Despite a brief resurgence and expansion in the 1990s, including the construction of an education annex, membership ultimately waned, and the church closed its doors in 2012. The property is now under the stewardship of the City of Euharlee, preserving the legacy of the Euharlee Presbyterian Church as a cherished chapter in the community's history.
Black Pioneer Cemetery
The Black Pioneer Cemetery is a one-acre cemetery, that lies between the Euharlee Presbyterian and Euharlee Baptist Churches. The cemetery was used for the burial of enslaved indiviuals in Euharlee prior to the Civil War and for African American residents of the area through the early 1900s. Most of the graves were originally unmarked. By the 1990s, the cemetery was overgrown and virtually forgotten by many in Euharlee. The Euharlee Historical Society, the Etowah Valley Historical Society, and the City of Euharlee undertook the task of clearing the cemetery and identifying graves in the late 1990s. EVHS member, Carl Etheridge conducted an investigation to determine the location of the graves in the cemetery. Using dowsing rods and probes, over three hundred graves were found. Of the 333 known burials in the cemetery, only two individuals have been identified: Het Powell, a freedwoman, midwife and a local man named Jim Scott. Ongoing efforts to identify indiviuals or families that maybe laid to rest here are ongoing. In August 2002, the Euharlee Historical Society erected and dedicated a permanent marker in memory of those buried. In 2007, Eagle Scout John Daniels and his troop placed wooden crosses at each grave. The Memorial that stands gives Het's year of death as 1890 but with time and further research we know that she lived until at least 1920 as confirmed by the 1920 census where she is living with her daughter. That gives us confidence to believe that burials were taking place up until the 1920's.
Euharlee Baptist Church & Cemetery
Euharlee Baptist Church, founded in the mid-1800s as Mount Paran Baptist Church before adopting its current name in 1898, has a rich history intertwined with the community's heritage. While early records were lost in a house fire, the church's active presence in the 1840s is evidenced by its membership in the Coosa Association. In 1853, the church took a significant step by establishing Mount Paran School through legislative action, situated near its location.The main structure and sanctuary of Euharlee Baptist Church were erected in 1852, reflecting the architectural style of that era. Notably, the church featured separate entrances and porches for men and women, a common practice during that time. Legend has it that the church endured a tornado long ago, resulting in a divided building that was symbolically patched with a large metal piece instead of undergoing full repairs. This makeshift solution led to unbalanced pews for a considerable period.Over time, the church expanded with the addition of Sunday school rooms and a fellowship hall, adapting to the evolving needs of its congregation. Today, Euharlee Baptist Church remains an active member of the Bartow Baptist Association, upholding its traditions while embracing modern initiatives.In addition to its spiritual significance, the church is closely associated with the historic Euharlee Baptist Church Cemetery, which dates back to 1818, making it one of the oldest cemeteries in Bartow County. The cemetery, filled over generations, reflects the deep-rooted connection of church members with their community, with some graves also found in the nearby Presbyterian church cemetery.
Euharlee Mason Lodge #457
According to "The History of Euharlee" Lodge #457 was chartered on October 29, 1903. - Dr. J.F. McGowan, W.M.; T.J. Taylor ,S.W.; W.G. Kennedy, J.W.The building was orignally owned by The Odd Fellows and there was a previous Lodge that was chartered, Lodge #75, but it lost its charter in 1875 and the new Lodge reorganized in 1903.
Militia Court House & Calaboose
Georgia militia districts grew out of the Colonial Acts in 1733 and 1755. The militia provided extra manpower during military emergencies. Every man between ages 16 and 60 was required to be a member of his district company and do yearly drills. The organized Georgia militia is no longer active. The militia district courts were presided over by a Justice of the Peace who dispensed law and order. Today militia districts are used to define property taxation, election district boundaries, stock and fence laws, and other matters delegated by the State government. Militia District #851 was created in 1837 and a courthouse was built near a sawmill and the Euharlee Creek. The first Justice of the Peace was Absolam Stephens who served until 1839. The existing courthouse was built between 1880 -1890 on land owned by local farmer and grist mill owner Daniel Lowry. After the district courthouses were no longer needed, many fell into disrepair or were torn down. The EuharleeCourthouse is one of the few remaining in Georgia. The last Justice of the Peace was Cliff Nelson, who held the post for over fifty years. In 1974, the Etowah Valley Historical Society saw the need torestore the historic courthouse and adjacent calaboose. The restored courthouse was dedicated on May 22, 1976. The City of Euharlee currently owns and maintains the buildings.
General Store
The Euharlee General Store stands as a timeless landmark in the community, tracing its roots back to the 1850s when it was first built. Over the years, the store has changed hands, passing through the ownership of notable families such as the Nelsons, the Tumlins, the Taylors, and possibly others, each contributing to its legacy and development.Despite facing adversity, such as a fire in 1887, the store was diligently repaired, maintaining its place as a central hub for the locals. Its significance goes beyond being just a general store; it has also housed a saloon, adding to its multifaceted role in the community.Throughout its history, the Euharlee General Store has been more than just a place to purchase goods. It has served as a vital center for exchanging news, conducting business transactions, and socializing. One notable example is "The Whittler's Club," where members gathered around a potbellied stove, engaged in conversation while skillfully crafting woodwork.Continuing its tradition of service, the store has remained in continuous operation to this day, evolving with the times.
The Blacksmith Shop- Euharlee Creek Outfitters
Euharlee Creek Outfitters began renting kayaks, canoes, and tubes out of the historic Lowry Blacksmith Shop in the spring of 2011. We are located near Euharlee Creek which flows through the mid-1800s village of Euharlee, Georgia.Euharlee is also known as the "Covered Bridge City," due to the extraordinary Euharlee Covered Bridge, located just down the street from our float shop.A visit to Euharlee is like stepping back in time, in all the best ways!When you come, plan on spending some extra time exploring around this charming, history-rich area.
The Old Library
This facility features a refrigerator/freezer, small sink, open room for entertaining, and a restroom. This space can occupy a maximum of 103 people. Your rental includes 9 tables and 58 chairs.A $100.00 cash deposit is required for non-wedding rentals, and a $150.00 cash deposit is required for a wedding rental. A rental fee of $125.00 (cash or check) is required and due the week of the event. The facility can be rented for additional consecutive days for $100.00 per day. All utensils, cookware, paper products and trash bags shall be supplied by the renter. All clean-up is to be provided by the renter including removal of all trash. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted at these facilities. No tobacco products may be used inside these facilities.
Commissary
Commissaries were important in the rural agricultural areas. Farming tenants needed a place to purchase financed goods. Landowners generally provided this service via a commissary where tenants could purchase needed items and not pay until after the sale of their crops, generally once a year.The 1860s Commissary has several interesting interior feature including: iron strap hinges ending with tulip finials, diagonal shutter bar locks with slotted pins, and boards that run vertically on the sides and horizontally on the front and rear walls. The building was restored in the 1980s.
First Responders Memorial
Osborne Park
The typical vision of a city park, Osborne features an old fashioned playground, two pavilions, two baseball and/or softball fields, a walking trail, and picnic tables. In the heart of Historic Downtown Euharlee, Osborne Park gives you the walkability to dine, play, and shop - all in one historic location!Open 7:30am until dark.
Historic Granary
Originally an 1860s commissary, the building was later used for grain storage and renamed the Granary. The front building includes 10” x 16” glass in the original window sash and steel butt hinges on the rear door. The back section was a Lowry farm “buggy barn” which was moved and attached via an enclosed ramp in the 1970s.
Travelers Well
This public well, hand-dug by settlers, was used by generations of weary travelers crossing Euharlee Creek. The building encasing the well was constructed as part of the Euharlee preservation project in the 1970s and 1980s. Many have asked why was the well dug so close to river, which was a viable water source, we can only speculate on the reasons the orignal inhibits had for doing it but here are some factors that might have played a part.Dug wells are vital for supplying water to communities worldwide, and their strategic location near rivers offers several advantages:1. Abundant Water Source:Rivers act as natural water reservoirs, ensuring a constant water supply.Wells near rivers tap into the groundwater from nearby aquifers, which is replenished by the river's flow.2. Reliable Water Supply:These wells provide a steady water source, particularly during dry spells or droughts.Even when surface water levels decrease, groundwater remains accessible through these wells.3. Ease of Digging:The presence of a river streamlines the digging process.The soil near rivers is typically softer, making excavation easier compared to rocky or arid regions.4. Water Quality:Rivers contribute to recharging the aquifer, maintaining water purity.Wells near rivers often yield cleaner water due to natural filtration processes.5. Irrigation and Agriculture:Farmers utilize river-fed wells for irrigation purposes, improving crop yield.These wells play a crucial role in agriculture by supplying water for crops and livestock.6. Historical Significance:Throughout history, communities settled near rivers for water supply, transportation, and sustenance.Wells near rivers have served communities for generations, underscoring their historical and practical significance.
Euharlee Bridge
The 1886 bridge that stands today is not the original bridge built to provide a throughway over the creek for the people of the Euharlee community. Many incarnations, a ferry and at least two other bridges, preceeded our beloved Covered Bridge but they ultimately collasped or washed away leading up to the building of a more substanial bridge that still stands to this day.The Covered Bridge that we know and love was built by Washington King, son of famous bridge builder Horace King. The King Family were a family ahead of their time, accomplishing amazing things while living in a time of slavery and post Civil War era, racial injustice and inequality.The covered bridge was built in 1886 of heart pine with "tree nails" 2 foot long wooden pegs and was built using the town lattice style. The bridge was actual built offsite and each piece numbered and reassembled at its current location. It has had some repairs and upgrades, the metal railings & sprinkler system, over the years but remains largely the original structure. The foundations are set deep in the bank and built high enough to survive when the river flooded and not be washed away. The stones of the foundation came from the Lowry homeplace which is located next to the bridge.
Lowry Mill & Euharlee Beach
Before Euharlee was officially incorporated, it was knownas Burge’s Mill. Its namesake, Nathaniel Burge, moved from Gwinnett County in 1834, bought 800 acres of landsurrounding the Euharlee Creek, and built a grist mill alongthe bank. These mills were used for grinding wheat, corn, and othergrains. Mills work by depositing dried grains into the hopper, which leads to the grinding stone. The stone would thengrind the grain into meal which could be packaged and sold. The mill and surrounding land were sold to several different operators during the 1850s and 1860s. Around the timethe mill was purchased by Daniel Lowry II, there was a devastating fire. After being rebuilt, the mill became the center of community life, drawing people from seven surrounding counties to use the mill. The dam created a calm pool in the creek where people swam for recreation. At one time, there was also a cotton gin and saw mill across the creek. The Lowry family even used the mill to produce electricity for their farm before power was available in Euharlee. After years of being unused, the mill fell into ruin. In 2014, the City of Euharlee began excavating and rebuilding the millsite.
The Outpost by Drowned Valley Brewing Co.
The Outpost by Drowned Valley Brewing Co.
The Village- Lowry Homestead
Lowry HomesteadThe Lowry homestead was located in this area prior to its destruction by fire in the 1980s. Daniel Lowry II, wife Sarah, and their family moved to Euharlee from Rockmart when Lowry purchased the mill site and adjacent farm land. The Lowry family contributed to the Euharlee community, including donating the land for the courthouse and the stones to build part of the covered bridge. After Daniel’s death in 1902, his children continued to operate the mill and farm. Tanner Lowry became a doctor and practiced in both Euharlee and Cartersville. One son, John, died while serving in the military during World War I. Daniel and Sarah’s daughters lived on the property until their deaths in the 1970s. None of Daniel’s children had any descendants, and the Lowry properties were donated to Berry College in 1978. Berry divided the property and the City of Euharlee purchased the central 11.337 acres for $11,000 at an auction.Cow ShedThis 1850s structure was original to the Lowry farm and renovated in 1997. The building was used as a storage for farm supplies and for other essential farm functions. Later, in the 20th century, an addition was constructed and the facility was used as a single family dwelling. It also housed the Euharlee History Museum until 2007.Little General StoreOne of the few remaining smaller buildings original to the Lowry farm, this general store would have been used primarily as a smokehouse or a storage building.
Emmie Nelson Library
The Emmie Nelson Library, the Euharlee branch of the Bartow County Library System, is a hidden gem. Within the walls of this exquisite and abundantly stocked library lies not just a vast collection of reading material for all, but also a warm embrace of rural comfort that feels like home.The back porch invites children to gather, where they can immerse themselves in reading, coloring, and joyful laughter. Meanwhile, parents find solace in the soothing rhythm of rocking chairs, engrossed in their books as they oversee their children's playful adventures. For parents with little ones, the tranquil surroundings provide a perfect sanctuary for rocking babies while older siblings engage in reading or other activities.
Frankie Harris Park
This beautiful park features open green space, an open air pavilion, picnic tables, electrical hook ups, and a separate building with restrooms and concession area for staging. (Food preparation is not allowed in the concession area). Most of the City's major events are located at this beautiful location, including the Covered Bridge Fall Festival held annually in October.
Euharlee Creek Campground at Frankie Harris Park
If you're looking for a peaceful stay and small town charm, look no further than Euharlee Creek Campground at Frankie Harris Park in Georgia. This city run park offers spacious sites for you to set up camp and relax. Spend your day enjoying the atmosphere of the campground or exploring the local area. Be sure to visit the welcome center and museum, the covered bridge, and the Euharlee Creek Outfitters so you can get out on the river. Book your spot today for a lovely stay in Georgia!
Joe Cowan Park
Joe Cowan features walking trails, a tot play area, tennis courts, multi-use fields, basketball courts, indoor and outdoor batting cages, baseball and softball fields and a fully functional concession stand. This park is often used for tournament play, as well as school sports functions.Open 7:00am to 11:00pm.
City Hall & Euharlee Police Department
OUR MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES...The Mission of the City of Euharlee is to promote and improve the quality of community life by working in partnership with residents, business owners, and visitors to provide a safe, friendly, healthy, community atmosphere.Our Vision: • Embrace a vision of opportunity • Recognize and protect the three tenets of the city: Historic Preservation, Conservation and Recreation • Provide a safe and inviting community • Execute responsibly, reliably, and efficiently to a common vision • Build an inclusive environment with opportunities for all • Encourage and solicit open communication and participation among employees, citizens, business owners, and visitors • Provide a family friendly community with solid values and a caring spirit • Promote economic vitality • Strategically position Euharlee for the future by supporting planned growthOur Values: • Exercise Leadership • Serve the Public in a Fiscally Responsible Manner • Illustrate Honest and Effective Government • Practice a Positive Work Environment • Represent a Commitment to Excellence • Foster Community Pride • Create and Implement an Ongoing Long Range Vision • Exhibit a Quality Work Design • Exceed Service Demands by Performing Exceptional Customer Service • Preserve and Enhance the Natural Beuaty of Our Environment • Encourage a Vibrant and Diversified Economy • Develop Partnerships • Value Tactful, Useful Information • Provide Honest Communication Internally and Externally
