Decades before Reinhardt was founded, a different part of history was taking place in northern Georgia. Dr. Kenneth Wheeler, Dean of the College of Humanities, Sciences, and Technology wrote a book with an interesting reinterpretation of the development of Georgia in the 19th century. His recent appearance on the Then Again! podcast of the Northeast Georgia History Center, is revitalizing public interest in the history of this era.
Modern Cronies: Southern Industrialism from Gold Rush to Convict Labor, 1829-1894 contains fascinating insights into the effects on history by the discovery of gold, a new U.S. Mint branch, railroad expansions, the Cherokee Nation, politicians, and prison labor. The land and people surrounding Waleska had an economic impact on the nation and played an important role in industrial development.
The podcast can be listened to HERE. The book was published in 2021 by the University of Georgia Press.
