Early Dalton

The Cherokee Indians called the Dalton-Whitfield County area home long before the Civil War. Dalton is the gateway to the 150-mile Chieftain’s Trail, which traces the path of Cherokee Indian sites located throughout Northwest Georgia.

As the colonial population spread westward, efforts were being made by the United States government to prepare for the white settlers who would soon settle in this area. In 1831, the government entered into a treaty with the Cherokees whereby they would trade with the Indians, lands that would eventually become a bound federal Indian reservation in exchange for their homes in Georgia.

The final council meeting of the Georgia's native Cherokee was held in Whitfield County, and it marked the starting point of Andrew Jackson's well known "Trail of Tears."

Visitors to the area today can explore the historic home of Chief Joseph Vann, the Echota Cherokee Capital, and the Red Clay Council Grounds, lasting remains of a strong and proud Cherokee Indian nation.