Legend has it.....
While many small towns boast legends and ghost stories, Euharlee stands apart as a community not defined by tales of curses or haunted pasts. Although tragedies have occurred, the essence of Euharlee lies in its resilient and tight-knit populace. Nestled at the convergence of Euharlee Creek and the Etowah River, this land has been inhabited for millennia, initially by Native American tribes, and the name Euharlee, which means “She laughs as she runs” gives honor to her original people and a testament to the beautiful sound of the creek. Settled by pioneers in the 1830s for its fertile soil and ample water supply, Euharlee flourished with the establishment of mills, cotton gins, and community institutions. Despite facing challenges, including a post-Civil War decline in population, Euharlee persevered, eventually experiencing a revival in the late 20th century. Today, it remains a beacon of agricultural heritage and community spirit, with organizations like the Euharlee Farmers Club, founded in 1883, still thriving. Euharlee's history is one of resilience, growth, and enduring community bonds, far removed from the specters of curses and ghostly tales that haunt other towns' narratives.
The Real History
At the juncture of Euharlee Creek and the Etowah River, lies the City of Euharlee. Euharlee was inhabited for thousands of years by Native Americans. The last Native American tribe to utilize the rich land and waterways for transportation and sustenance were the Cherokee.
In fact, the name Euharlee is a derivative of a Native American word meaning, “She laughs as she runs.” The phrase refers to the sound of the creek as it moves toward the juncture with the river. In 1832, the State of Georgia formed 10 counties from what had been Cherokee land, including Cass County, now called Bartow.
Pioneers began settling around 1834 on the land due to its fertile soil and abundant water for power and irrigation. The settlement was initially called Burge’s Mill, due to the construction of a mill on Euharlee Creek by Nathaniel Burge. As the community continued to grow, expansion was found in the building of cotton gins, stores, churches, schools, and a militia courthouse.
In 1852, the town was incorporated as Euharleyville. The population of Euharleyville reached nearly 2300 that year. Then in 1870, the town was chartered with the name Euharlee.
The historic covered bridge, which spans Euharlee Creek, was built in 1886 by Washington W. King, son of famed bridge builder and freed slave Horace King, and Jonathan Burke.
Agriculture has long been an important industry and way of life in Euharlee. Over the years, many families lived and worked on farms, and agriculture continues to be a vital part of our community today. In addition, churches and community organizations established in the 1800s are still active in Euharlee today. The Euharlee Farmers Club, established in 1883 is the oldest continuously operating farmers club in the world.
Following the Civil War and up through the early twentieth century, the population of the town dwindled. In 1970 it had dipped to a population of 65. The town was re-chartered in 1976 and has experienced continued residential and economic growth.