Gwinnett's history begins in the early 1800's and the official county charter was registered on December 15, 1818. The first trials, elections and sheriff's sales were held at the Hog Mountain home of Elisha Winn in 1819, a home that still stands today. Winn's homestead is the site of the annual Elisha Winn Fair each fall, an event that celebrates our county's humble beginnings. 

Today, pockets of history and heritage still dot Gwinnett's cities and towns. Much of Gwinnett's original history can be found in the downtown Lawrenceville Square (www.visitlawrenceville.com), where the 1885 Historic Courthouse stands as a monument and landmark among the shops, cafes and businesses. The Courthouse is also the home of the new Veteran's Memorial Museum, where memorabilia from the Civil to the Gulf War are on display. For all things history and heritage, visitors and residents should visit the Gwinnett Historical Society (www.gwinnetths.org), located on the 2nd floor of the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse.

The entire 112-acre downtown Norcross district (www.norcrossga.net) is on the National Register of Historic Places, full of historic homes and original buildings. Original buildings still dot the downtowns of Buford and Lilburn, and visitors can find out the history of Buford in the fascinating Museum of Buford.

Kids will enjoy the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center (www.gehc.com) where science, geology and hydrology come alive!