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Nelson, straddling the border of Cherokee and Pickens counties, is a town whose history is deeply tied to Georgia's marble industry. Before its industrial reputation, however, Nelson was part of Cherokee land, with indigenous people living and trading in the area for centuries. After the Cherokee removal in the 1830s, white settlers began farming the land and soon discovered valuable natural resources hidden in the mountains—most notably, marble.

The discovery of high-quality marble deposits in the late 19th century transformed Nelson from a small farming community into a significant industrial hub. Marble from Nelson and surrounding Pickens County quarries was used in some of the nation's most important buildings, monuments, and sculptures. The marble industry provided steady employment and reshaped the community's economy, creating a town that prospered through skilled labor and industry rather than agriculture alone.

Infrastructure development supported this booming marble trade. The Louisville and Nashville Railroad was essential in transporting heavy marble blocks to Atlanta and beyond. Road improvements in the 20th century, including access to Georgia Highway 5 and later Interstate 575, further connected Nelson to larger markets and made it more accessible to residents and businesses. These routes also encouraged residential growth as commuting to metro Atlanta became easier.

Community life in Nelson has always been closely linked to its marble industry. Families often had multiple generations working in the quarries or related businesses. The town also developed a reputation for resilience and independence, symbolized by its passage of the "Family Protection Ordinance" in 2013, a measure that drew national attention by emphasizing residents' right to self-defense. Events, churches, and schools reinforced Nelson's small-town character while preserving pride in its heritage.

Today, Nelson is a thriving small town with a mix of industry, history, and suburban appeal. It retains ties to the marble industry while offering residential communities attractive to those working in nearby Canton, Jasper, or the greater Atlanta area. Nelson combines historic significance with modern convenience, making it a unique part of Cherokee County with a proud legacy and promising future.