Introduction to Cumming, Georgia
Cumming is the county seat of Forsyth County. The city was named in tribute to Col. William Cumming who participated in the War of 1812. According to census data, Forsyth county was positioned at number 13 in the country regarding medium annual income and included in the top ten for the fastest growing counties in the nation in 2006. The region is included in the Atlanta Metropolitan area. The Chattahoochee River is nearby.
History
The city was incorporated in 1834. The county was initially inhabited by Cherokee Indians. An Indian mound and village are situated along Settendown Creek. The land was acquired from the Cherokee by a treaty. The county's land was given away in a land lottery in 1832. Numerous landowners sold their property without even visiting their acreage. In more recent history, a well known civil rights march occurred in 1987. The march was mentioned in the New York Times. The week after the event, it was estimated that 20,000 civil rights activists participated in another march while more than 5,000 people protested the event. Most of the participants on both sides of the issue were not residents of the county. It is recognized as the biggest civil rights demonstration in the country since 1970. Observers claim that at least two thirds of the participants in the civil rights march were white. The race issue has significantly improved.
Attractions
The historic Pool's Mill Covered Bridge, constructed in 1906 crosses Settendown Creek and is included in the National Register of Historic Places. A few Indian archaeological sites and the historic Settles Home are located in the area. The clock tower situated in Cumming Town Hall and the Cumming Courthouse are notable landmarks. The annual Fourth of July parade is recognized for displaying the largest number of steam engine tractors in the world.
Activities
Baldridge Creek, Shady Grove and Sawnee parks provide campgrounds for visitors. The Lanierland Music Park showcases prominent country music entertainers, beginning in the summer and up to late fall. The area offers superb golf courses, including the championship golf course, Hampton Golf Village. Lake Sidney Lanier has an extensive shoreline and is popular for recreational activities and features Southern Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons. The city hosts the Cumming Fair & Festival and the Indian Festival & Rendezvous.
Transportation
The William B Hartsfield Atlanta INTL provides air transportation.
Higher Education
Nearby colleges include Gwinnett Technical College, Gainesville College and Emory University.
