The Smith House Joins Historic Hotels of America

T2F Note: "There's gold in them hills!!" Dahlonega and the history of gold in Georgia- just another one of the coveted Fayette Front Page Day Trippers.

PRNewswire/ -- The Smith House in Dahlonega Georgia is pleased to announce it has joined Historic Hotels of America, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and a brand of Preferred Hotel Group.

The Smith House is one of more than 220 hotels and resorts throughout the country that is recognized by Historic Hotels of America for preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture and ambiance.

"The trend of cultural travel in America continues to grow," said Thierry Roch, executive director of Historic Hotels of America. "By inviting The Smith House into our collection of distinguished properties, we are continuing to encourage historic preservation while at the same time showcasing this hotel's rich history."

To be selected for membership in National Trust Historic Hotels, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or recognized locally as having historic significance.

"We are extremely honored and excited to become one of the newest members among such a prestigious group of historic hotels in the United States," said Chris Welch of The Smith House.
Originally built as a residence for a wealthy Dahlonega merchant, The Smith House garnered attention even before it was built. In 1899, the local newspaper reported that while excavating a cellar on the property, workers discovered a very rich vein of gold ore. It was described as several feet wide and depth unknown. The city fathers refused to allow a mining operation to be
constructed on the property which is located only one block from the downtown public square.

In 2006, while undergoing a major renovation, a mine shaft was discovered in the basement of the main house. It is suspected that the original owner of the property, Frank Wayland Hall, may have been secretively mining for gold in the basement of his house.

Today, The Smith House delivers an authentic historic experience in a modern and comfortable environment. Guestrooms may be booked online at www.smithhouse.com .

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