Only an hour's drive from Atlanta, Jefferson was designated the county seat of Jackson County on November 24, 1806. The city, named for President Thomas Jefferson, was the site of a previous Indian settlement named Thomoccoggan. The city was then incorporated as Jeffersonville. Later, the name was changed to Jeffersonton and finally shortened to its current name on June 30, 1824. Dr. Crawford W. Long first used ether for surgery in Jefferson on March 30, 1842. The Crawford W. Long Museum highlights the life and medical career of Dr. Long. Gently rolling hills provide a perfect backdrop to the Traditions Golf Course and the picturesque buildings in downtown house some great local shops and restaurants. Hurricane Shoals Park is a great family outdoor escape while Gresham Motorsports Park offers spectators state-of-the-art oval- track racing and entertainment. A must see is the Shields Ethridge Heritage Farm, an outdoor agricultural museum.

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