Forsyth County - Georgia

County Courthhouse

County Seat: Cumming
Incorporated: December 3, 1832
Population: 140,393
Total Area: 225,8 Square miles

Forsyth County was created in 1832 from parts of the original Cherokee Country. It was named for John Forsyth, Governor of Georgia from 1827-1829 and Secretary of State under Presidents Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren.

Cumming was established in 1834. The city is named for Colonel William Cumming of Augusta, a prominent lawyer.

Several Indian archaeological sites are located within Forsyth County. An Indian mound and village are located on Settendown Creek near the mouth of the Etowah River. Another Indian village is located near Sawnee Mountain on Big Creek.

Two places of historic note in Forsyth County are Pool's Mill Covered Bridge and the Settles Home. One of the few remaining covered bridges in the country, Pool's Mill is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Settles Home is considered to be the oldest home in the county and is under consideration to be listed as a historic landmark.

Much of the eastern side of the county lies on the shores of Lake Sidney Lanier, one of the busiest recreational bodies of water in the nation with 200 miles of shoreline. Created in the 1950s with the impoundment of the Chattahoochee River at Buford Dam, the lake has accelerated the growth of the county, as well as provided recreational enjoyment for many throughout north Georgia. The lake is home to Southern Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons, both endangered species.

Forsyth County has been ranked by the U.S. Census as the fastest growing county in Georgia.