(NAPSA)—Historic sites con- tinue to attract visitors to American cities and towns. One place that’s making history is Georgia. From storied Native American trails to thundering Civil War battlegrounds, antebellum architecture to stately plantations, the sights and sounds of Georgia’s heritage reveal more than one state’s history: they teach the history of the nation. “Georgia has long been recognized for its nostalgia, rich history and legendaryfigures,” said Janis Cannon, deputy commissioner, Georgia Department of Industry, Trade and Tourism. The state has five distinct regions to enjoy. Here’s what each hasto offer. Mountains: Those interested in Georgia’s Native American heritage can explore the Chieftain’s Trail, which marks the life and history of the Creek and Cherokee. Tour original and reconstructed buildings dedicated to Cherokee art and culture at the Echota State Historic Site, former capital of the tribe’s nation. Dahlonega, site of the country’s first gold rush in 1828, offers modern prospectors the chance to pan for gold at several mines. The Blue and Gray Trail traces the path of destruction carved by some of the Civil War’s most savage fighting. Coast: The classic elegance of its homes and formal squares makes Savannah’s National Historic District a must for architecture and history enthusiasts. The city’s storied past comes alive at the Savannah History Museum. Relive the struggle of the Civil War at the nearby Fort Pulaski National Monument, Old Fort Jackson and Fort McAllister where General Sherman’s famous March to the Sea ended. Midway’s Seabrook Village is a living historical tribute to African-American life in South Georgia. The Hofwyl- Broadfield State Historic Site enlightens travelers about the rice plantations that once thrived near Brunswick. Historic South: In Augusta, take a step back in time at Woodrow Wilson’s boyhood home or at the Augusta Museum of History. The Lucy Laney Museum of Black History honors one of the most influential black teachers in post-Civil War history. Washing- Georgia’s rich history beckons travelers from here and abroad. ton’s Callaway Plantation, a restored working plantaion, features a manor house, school and log cabin indicative of Civil War era architecture. Madison boasts some of the most stately homes in Georgia. The Old Governor’s Mansion and State Capitol Museum in Milledgeville offer a thorough perspective of Georgia’s role in the Civil War. Southern Rivers: In the tiny town of Plains, the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site recognizes the achievements and contributions of the former President. Franklin Roosevelt’s memory lives on in Warm Springs. His beloved Little White House, not far from FDR State Park, offers home tours and a museum. The Albany Civil Rights Movement Museum and Old Mt. Zion Church paytribute to Georgia’s role in civil rights. Atlanta: The Atlanta History Center documentsthecity’s journey from its former days as Terminus, a stop at the end of the railroad, to a modern, international city. The Margaret Mitchell House and Museum in Midtown offers Gone With the Wind fans a look at Hollywood memorabilia and the author’slife in Atlanta. The Martin Luther King National Historic Site allows tourists to stop and pay tribute to the peaceful leader. Another stop on Atlanta’s heritage circuit is the Carter Presidential Center, established by Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter to further the causes of global health, urban revitalization and democracy. Outside the commotion of the city is Stone Mountain Park, one of Atlanta’s most popular attractions. Tourists can cruise quiet lakes on river- boats, tour an antebellum mansion and admire the world’s largest relief carving on the world’s largest massof exposed granite. For more information, visit www.georgia.org.
