Loading...
Search Hotel Deals Search Amazing Deals On Vacation Rentals & Hotels in Sugarloaf!

Trending Topic: The Granite Capital of the World

Sugarloaf Travel Guide The History of Elberton's Granite Industry
Elberton, Georgia is a quaint southern town nestled in the heart of the Peach State. While it may seem like just another small town at first glance, Elberton has an interesting claim to fame - it is known as the Granite Capital of the World. This title is no exaggeration. Elberton produces more granite memorials and monuments than any other city in the entire world. But how did this small town become such a major player in the granite industry? Let's take a look at the history behind this unique characteristic of Elberton. The Origin of Elberton's Granite
First, we have to go back in time to the early 1800s. During this time, Elberton was home to many large granite deposits. However, it wasn't until 1882 that Thomas M. Littleton discovered a large vein of high-quality granite in Elberton. This led to the establishment of the first quarry in 1885, and the development of the town's granite industry was soon to follow. With the aid of the Georgia Railroad, Elberton's high-quality granite was able to be transported across the country, and even to Europe. The Impact on the Community
As the granite industry continued to grow in Elberton, so did the town itself. With more and more quarries being established, new businesses and opportunities started to flourish. This had a significant impact on the community, providing jobs and boosting the local economy. Elberton's granite became sought after for its strength and durability, and it was used for a wide range of products, including curbing, building stones, and of course, monuments and memorials. The Elberton Granite Festival
With such a rich history and strong ties to the granite industry, Elberton celebrates its unique characteristic with an annual Granite Festival. Every year, during the last weekend in October, the town comes alive with music, food, and activities for people of all ages. Guests can tour the granite quarries, watch granite carving demonstrations, and even participate in a 5K race on a course made entirely of granite. The festival is a perfect way to celebrate the community's heritage and showcase the town's beautiful granite. The World's Largest Piece of Granite
Of course, a trip to Elberton wouldn't be complete without seeing the world's largest piece of granite. Located in the center of town, this massive granite monument stands at 45 feet tall and weighs over 125 tons. It is engraved with a map of Georgia and various historical figures, including Martin Luther King Jr. and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This monument serves as a symbol of the importance of the granite industry to the town of Elberton. A Must-Visit Destination for Families
In conclusion, Elberton may be a small town, but it has a big history and a unique charm that draws visitors from all over the world. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a fun and educational family vacation spot, Elberton is the perfect destination. From the annual Granite Festival to the world's largest piece of granite, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn about in this little town known as the Granite Capital of the World.

Share this post:


Related topics:

Search for Hotels In Sugarloaf, PA

Become a Free TravNow Member & Save More Today!    Sign Up Now & Start Saving!



Save 20%+ on

Hotels

Members Save 20% or More

Off Our Already Low Public Prices!

Save Hundreds on

Your Next Trip

Your TravNow Bookings Benefit Charity

5% of our commission on every TravNow booking is donated to charity. TravNow Bookings Benefit Charity Learn More

Become a Member Today - Free!

Sign Up Now For Free Free Member Signup
  • Save Big On Hotels & Vacation Rentals
    Save Big On Hotels!

    Our publicly-available rates are among the lowest on the internet, but sign up for a free TravNow membership and get immediate access to our hidden "members-only" rates that can save you 20% or more on top of our low everyday rates.

  • Access To Non-Public "Travel Agent" Pricing & Inventory

    We are able to offer our private members access to wholesale pricing that the hotels and huge travel websites don't want the public to see!

  • Unique Vacation Inventory
  • TravNow Member Rewards
    Member Rewards Program

    Members are automatically enrolled in the internet's top reward program - stay 12 nights, and earn one night FREE! It's easy to earn valuable rewards while saving with TravNow!

Discover The Lowest Prices Available On The World's Top Hotel Brands
Book The World's Top Hotel Brands With TravNow


Return To Top