Buyers Trust Us
Realtors Refer Us

The area now known as Toccoa Falls has deep roots in Cherokee heritage, with the name "Toccoa" derived from a Cherokee word meaning "beautiful." Before European settlement, the Cherokee lived among the Blue Ridge foothills, where they fished, farmed, and hunted. The removal of the Cherokee in the 1830s opened the region to white settlers, who established farms and homesteads across what is now Stephens County. Yet the natural wonder of Toccoa Falls remained a centerpiece of the landscape, drawing admiration from locals and travelers alike.

By the late 19th century, the falls had gained regional recognition not only for their beauty but for their symbolic power. Standing at 186 feet, Toccoa Falls is one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The surrounding area became a source of inspiration for religious leaders and educators. In 1907, Toccoa Falls Institute (later Toccoa Falls College) was founded by Dr. Richard A. Forrest as a Christian school dedicated to combining academic study with spiritual training. The campus was built near the falls, which soon became both a natural and spiritual landmark.

Economic growth in Toccoa Falls was closely tied to the development of the college. While surrounding towns depended heavily on agriculture and railroads, Toccoa Falls centered around education, faith, and community life. The presence of the school created a steady population of students, faculty, and staff, who contributed to the town's vibrancy. Local businesses and farms also benefited from the economic activity generated by the institution.

Infrastructure development followed the needs of both the college and nearby Toccoa. Improved roads such as U.S. Route 123 and access to rail lines in Toccoa enhanced connectivity. The falls and the college became more accessible, attracting visitors and prospective students from across the region. The tragic dam break in 1977, when the Kelly Barnes Dam collapsed after heavy rains, remains one of the defining events in local history. The flood claimed 39 lives, many of them students and residents of the campus, leaving a lasting mark on the community.

Today, Toccoa Falls is known for its serene setting, close-knit community, and the enduring presence of Toccoa Falls College. The waterfall remains a treasured natural attraction, drawing tourists, photographers, and locals seeking reflection. The college continues to anchor the town's identity, offering education and fostering spiritual growth. Toccoa Falls stands as both a natural wonder and a symbol of resilience, where history, beauty, and community converge.