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Center of the World marker.

Center of the World

Field review by the editors.

Hartwell, Georgia

A historical marker and stone monument declare that this spot is the "Center of the World." At least it was to the Cherokee, who called it Ah-Yeh-Li A-Lo-Hee. Trails radiated in all directions from this hub, so the designation made sense, at least before people arrived from places that the trails didn't go to (such as Europe). Hartwell was also, according to the plaque placed here, a popular roosting spot for migrating Passenger Pigeons. If you look around, you will not see any Cherokee or Passenger Pigeons -- there's just the monument and marker -- which says a lot about the transient nature of some centers.

Years ago there was a Center of the World Gift Shop, just down the road, where one could buy Center of the World t-shirts. But it's gone now, so people looking for similar gifts will have to travel to America's other Centers of the World, such as the one in California.

Center of the World

Address:
US Hwy 29, Hartwell, GA
Directions:
Marker 3 miles south of town on US 29/Hartwell St. at Marsh Lane.
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Nearby Offbeat Places

Ty Cobb MuseumTy Cobb Museum, Royston, GA - 9 mi.
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In the region:
Statue of the World's Strongest Man, Toccoa, GA - 27 mi.

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