Dowelltown

Dowelltown

DeKalb County’s smallest town is conveniently situated along Highway 70, near where Dry Creek feeds into the larger Smith Fork. To the east, the edge of scenic Highland Rim at Snows Hill, a natural landmark, has long divided county residents between those living “above” or “under the hill.”

At its base, the largest Civil War engagement in the area was fought in April 1863, commemorated with a historical market recounting the Battle of Snows Hill. Minie balls, cannonball shards, even the occasional button or buckle have turned up over the years to remind residents of the area's rich history. Another, earlier chapter is repeatedly revealed in the many Indian arrowheads, tools and relics still found throughout the area.

Dowelltown is named for its founder W. Frank Dowell. He started developing the area soon after a mill was constructed below a freshwater spring in 1867. Today the town’s "official" population barely tops 300. Many more with Dowelltown addresses live in the scenic hills, hollows and bottom land just beyond the city limits.

If you’re in a hurry, you’ll be out of place here. Natives enjoy and newcomers stay for the relative calm and easy lifestyle of country living.

As far as real estate and property goes, Dowelltown itself is characterized by mostly modest and affordable older homes. A few more spacious modern houses are taking shape on inexpensive lots around them. In the country, the woods have reclaimed most hillside farms, though some farming continues, especially in the rich bottoms. Large tracts of undeveloped land remain, though many larger farms are now being divided and sold as smaller more manageable lots for mini farms and rural retreats.

If you’re considering a move to the country, Dowelltown and its surroundings could be a good place to start your search.For a look at what’s available, click the "Homes for Sale" button at right. For all other types of property, follow this link and enter Dowelltown in the search form for the city name.

This Website created on an Apple iMac with Freeway Express 5 from Softpress.©2008