Forsyth County, Georgia

Forsyth County, Georgia

Forsyth County is a county located in the north-central part of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 244,252, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States. The county seat is Cumming.

History

Forsyth County was created on December 3, 1832, from a portion of the Cherokee County territory. It was named after John Forsyth, a prominent political figure who served as the 33rd Governor of Georgia and as Secretary of State under Presidents Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren.

Early History

The area that is now Forsyth County was originally inhabited by the Cherokee people. The discovery of gold in the region in the late 1820s led to the Georgia Gold Rush, which increased the influx of European-American settlers. This eventually led to the Trail of Tears, the forced removal of the Cherokee people from their ancestral lands.

20th Century

Forsyth County gained national attention in 1912 when racial tensions led to the expulsion of African Americans from the county. The county remained predominantly white for much of the 20th century. In the late 1980s, civil rights marches were held to protest the county's history of racial exclusion.

Geography

Forsyth County is part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. It is bordered by Dawson County to the north, Hall County to the east, Gwinnett County to the southeast, Fulton County to the south, and Cherokee County to the west.

Lakes and Rivers

The county is home to Lake Lanier, a large reservoir created by the damming of the Chattahoochee River. Lake Lanier is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities.

Demographics

Forsyth County has experienced rapid population growth in recent decades, driven by its proximity to Atlanta and its reputation for high-quality schools and a high standard of living. The county's population is diverse, with a mix of urban and rural communities.

Economy

The economy of Forsyth County is diverse, with key sectors including technology, healthcare, and retail. The county's location within the Atlanta metropolitan area provides residents with access to a wide range of employment opportunities.

Education

Forsyth County is served by the Forsyth County Schools district, which is known for its high-performing schools. The district operates several elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as specialized programs and academies.

Transportation

Major highways in Forsyth County include Georgia State Route 400, which provides direct access to Atlanta. The county is also served by a network of local roads and public transportation options.

Notable People

• Zac Brown, musician and lead singer of the Zac Brown Band, was raised in Forsyth County.
• Jeff Francoeur, former professional baseball player, attended high school in Forsyth County.

External Links

• Official Forsyth County Government Website
• Forsyth County Schools