North Georgia College and State University

This is a view from the south side of North Georgia College and State University in Dahlonega, GA. Established in 1873, the school has a rich history as well as stunning natural beauty surrounding it. Due to the Hope Scholarship in Georgia, high school residents of Georgia who maintain a B average can attend a state college for free, including NGCSU. Not a bad place to hang out for 4 years... or 5. By the way, the dome on the central building is plated in pure gold, mined from this area in the 19th century. There is still a major gold vein that runs through this area, but only one mine is still operable (there used to be dozens!). The old courthouse (built in 1836) is in the center of the square and is now host to the Dahlonega Gold Museum, which chronicles the history of the mining industry in the area. Interestingly, I met a guy a few months ago who has panned several thousand dollars worth of gold from the creeks. Hmmm... might run by Wal-Mart this afternoon and pick up a pan. :0)