House Resolution 468
By: Representatives Wade of the 9th and Gunter of the 8th
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing the historical significance of the 1911 Rand McNally map of White County,
Georgia; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, the 1911 Rand McNally map of White County, Georgia, provides a valuable
historical snapshot of the region's geography, infrastructure, and cultural landmarks as they
existed in the early 20th century; and
WHEREAS, the map highlights several communities that were once integral to the county's
social and economic fabric but have since diminished or disappeared, including Kinsey, Leo,
Loudsville, Nacoochee, Oculus, Parks, Pink, Asbestos, Benefit, Church, Cleveland, Eastburn,
Etris, Headen, Teshatee, Santee, Robertstown, Pole, and Pleasant Retreat, each of which
played a significant role in the area's development yet, over time, has been lost or absorbed
into larger towns or counties; and
WHEREAS, Kinsey, once a thriving community, was home to a strong agricultural base and
many pioneering families who helped shape the area's early economy—though no longer a
recognized town, its legacy remains in the memories of local families; and
WHEREAS, Leo, located near the Chattahoochee River, was a vital stop for travelers and
traders in the early days, facilitating commerce and communication through its strategic
position—while the river once supported a bustling community, it now reflects a quieter,
more rural landscape; and
WHEREAS, Loudsville, a community that emerged during the gold rush era, was home to
miners and traders seeking to capitalize on rich gold veins—though the town has faded into
history, its spirit can still be felt in the nearby mining towns that celebrate their shared
heritage; and
WHEREAS, Nacoochee, nestled in the Nacoochee Valley, remains a cultural touchstone
where Native American history meets early settler expansion, and while the town has largely
disappeared, the nearby Nacoochee Mound stands as a testament to its past; and
WHEREAS, Oculus, an early rural settlement, was known for its picturesque views and
close-knit community—although no physical remnants remain today, the legacy of its
residents continues to resonate throughout the surrounding area; and
WHEREAS, Parks, Pink, and Asbestos, smaller communities that developed during the early
industrial age, thrived for a time with local factories and mills but eventually dwindled and
disappeared; and
WHEREAS, Benefit, Church, and Cleveland were early religious and civic centers for the
region, serving as gathering spots for local residents to connect socially and spiritually, and
while these communities have undergone significant transformation, their role in shaping the
county's social fabric remains undeniable; and
WHEREAS, Eastburn, Etris, Headen, and Teshatee were vital to the development of the
agricultural economy in the region, providing farmlands and settlements that contributed to
White County's rural identity, yet they no longer exist as recognized towns; and
WHEREAS, Santee, Robertstown, Pole, and Pleasant Retreat, though long since forgotten
or absorbed by other municipalities, were once key crossroads for commerce and travel,
providing services and support to travelers and locals alike; and
WHEREAS, the map illustrates the layout of early transportation networks, including historic
roadways, railways, and settlements that shaped the development of small towns and rural
communities within White County; and
WHEREAS, many of the communities, settlements, and named locations on the map reflect
a way of life that has since evolved due to industrialization, urbanization, and shifts in
economic and social structures; and
WHEREAS, preserving and recognizing this historical cartographic record allows for a
deeper appreciation of the county's heritage and provides insight into how the landscape and
society have changed over time; and
WHEREAS, the study and commemoration of these lost or transformed landmarks contribute
to the broader understanding of Georgia's small-town history and the forces that shaped its
development throughout the 20th century.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body recognize the historical significance of the 1911 Rand McNally
map of White County, Georgia, and encourage further efforts to document, study, and
educate the public about the county's evolving geography and cultural legacy.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the
public and the press.