Welcome to Young Harris, a charming locality with a rich and evolving history nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of North Georgia. Our journey begins in 1886 when a dedicated Methodist minister, Artemas Lester, founded what is now Young Harris College. Originally called the McTyeire Institute, the college was named after Bishop Holland McTyeire. However, its fortunes changed thanks to a generous donation from Judge Young L.G. Harris, an Athens judge moved by the institute’s mission to educate the local Appalachian community. In gratitude, the college was renamed Young Harris Institute, and eventually Young Harris College, with the town following suit in 1895.
A significant event in the college’s history occurred in 1911 when a devastating fire destroyed the main classroom building. The local community rallied together to rebuild it, christening it Sharp Hall after the college president, Joseph A. Sharp. This spirit of community and resilience has been a cornerstone of Young Harris throughout its history.
The town and college have both evolved remarkably over the years. Young Harris College, once a small two-year school, expanded to a four-year institution in 2008, offering diverse bachelor’s programs. Today, the college is a hub of cultural and intellectual activity in the region, hosting events that enrich both students and the local community.
Young Harris is not just about academia. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. With the nearby Chattahoochee National Forest and Lake Chatuge, activities like hiking, fishing, and boating are popular pastimes.
Notable figures have walked the streets of Young Harris, including former Georgia governor Zell Miller, who was born here and served as the town’s mayor in 1959-1960. The town has also played host to film productions like Clint Eastwood’s ‘Trouble with the Curve’ in 2012, showcasing its picturesque settings.
As we drive through Young Harris, imagine the stories of the early settlers, the students who worked the college farm to pay their tuition, and the vibrant life of a community that has always valued education and perseverance.
