Explore Cartersville, Georgia’s, Indigenous History

Located just 40 miles from Atlanta, Cartersville, Georgia, might often be overlooked as a travel destination in the face of its much larger neighbor. But this town brims with history, art, world-class museums, landmarks and sites pointing back to its indigenous history.

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For instance, did you know Cartersville is home to the most intact Mississippian culture site in the Southeast? Etowah Mounds is considered one of the country’s most significant Native American archaeological digs. With only about 9 percent of the 54-acre site excavated, most of the land comprising Etowah Mounds is untouched. The site was built and occupied between 1000 and 1500.

Visitors to the site can also head to the on-site archaeological museum filled with artifacts found, showcasing just how complex and sophisticated this ancient community was. Looking ahead, the museum will transform into a new learning center in early 2024. Slated to include fabric panels detailing the rich history and culture of the ancient community, the center will also feature interactive displays to immerse visitors into the past.

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While in Cartersville, explore more of its history at Booth Western Art Museum, the world’s largest permanent exhibition space for Western art and the largest of its kind in the Southeast. The permanent collection includes Western art, presidential portraits and letters, and Civil War art.

Other historic sites not to miss in Cartersville: Euharlee Covered Bridge and History Museum, Rose Lawn Museum, Savoy Automobile Museum and Bartow History Museum.