Pigeon Mountain is a sandstone mountain located in northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama. It is part of the Cumberland Plateau physiographic province. The mountain was formed approximately 300 million years ago during the Mississippian Period. At that time, the area was covered by a shallow sea. Sediments, including sand, mud, and limestone, were deposited on the sea floor. Over time, these sediments were compacted and cemented together to form sandstone.
Native American Era
The area around Pigeon Mountain was inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years. The Cherokee were the dominant tribe in the area when Europeans first arrived. The Cherokee called the mountain Pigeon Roost Mountain because of the large number of pigeons that nested there.
European Exploration and Settlement
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers were the first Europeans to explore the area around Pigeon Mountain. In the 17th century, English settlers began to move into the area. The settlers built farms and settlements in the valleys and foothills of the mountain.
Industrial Development
In the 19th century, the discovery of coal and iron ore in the area led to the development of industry. Coal mines and iron foundries were built, and towns sprang up around them. Pigeon Mountain became a center of mining and industrial activity.
Decline of Industry
In the 20th century, the decline of the coal and iron industries led to a decline in the population of Pigeon Mountain. Many of the mines and foundries closed, and the towns that had sprung up around them became ghost towns.
Conservation Efforts
In recent years, there have been efforts to conserve the natural resources of Pigeon Mountain. The mountain is now part of the Chattahoochee National Forest, and several state parks and wildlife management areas are located in the area. These efforts have helped to protect the mountain's forests, wildlife, and scenic beauty.
Today
Today, Pigeon Mountain is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The mountain is also home to a number of historic sites, including the ruins of coal mines and iron foundries. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area, and it is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.