Gilmer County, Georgia

Gilmer County, Georgia

Gilmer 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 31,353. The county seat is Ellijay.

History

Gilmer County was created on December 3, 1832, from part of Cherokee County. It was named after George Rockingham Gilmer, a politician who served two non-consecutive terms as the governor of Georgia.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 431 square miles (1,120 km²), of which 427 square miles (1,110 km²) is land and 4.5 square miles (12 km²) (1.0%) is water.

Adjacent counties

• Fannin County - north
• Union County - northeast
• Dawson County - southeast
• Pickens County - south
• Gordon County - southwest
• Murray County - west

National protected areas

• Chattahoochee National Forest (part)

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 31,353 people, 12,000 households, and 8,500 families residing in the county. The population density was 73 people per square mile (28/km²).

Economy

Gilmer County is known for its apple orchards and is often referred to as the "Apple Capital of Georgia." The county hosts the annual Georgia Apple Festival in October, which attracts visitors from across the region.

Education

The county is served by the Gilmer County School District, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Gilmer High School.

Transportation

Major highways

• U.S. Route 76
• Georgia State Route 2
• Georgia State Route 5
• Georgia State Route 52

Communities

• Ellijay (county seat)
• East Ellijay
• Cherry Log

Notable people

• George Rockingham Gilmer, namesake of the county, served as governor of Georgia.

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Gilmer County, Georgia

External links

• Official Gilmer County Government Website
• New Georgia Encyclopedia: Gilmer County