Cherokee Indians live in the area.
Pioneers began settling the area in 1832. By the late 1830s, a religious encampment called Smyrna Camp Ground had become a popular travel destination and was well known throughout Georgia. It is a Greek name for the Biblical city of Smyrna, modern day Izmir in Turkey, the home of the Christian martyr Polycarp. After the completion of the Western and Atlantic Railroad in 1842, the area began to grow. It was known by several names until 1872-Varner’s Station, Ruff’s Siding, Neal Dow, and Ruff’s Station. The city was incorporated with the name Smyrna in 1872.
Two Civil War battles occurred in the area, the Battle of Smyrna Camp Ground and the Battle of Ruff’s Mill, both on July 4, 1864. The area’s businesses, homes, and 1849 covered bridge (since rebuilt and still in use today) were burned by Sherman’s troops.
Learn more about Smyrna.