Phase I Cultural Resource Survey of Historic Dam Sites in South Central and Southwest Georgia

This Phase I cultural resource survey of five historic dam sites in southwest and south-central Georgia was undertaken by Woodward-Clyde Federal Services (WC) on behalf of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These are 5 of approximately 40 impoundments that were breached during Tropical Storm Alberto in July, 1994. FEMA is providing funds for the repair of these dams. Because federal funds are involved and the sites were identified by the Georgia Historic Preservation Division as historic resources, this study was undertaken for compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (as amended), and its implementing regulations set forth at 36 CFR 800, and Section 101 of the National Environmental Policy Act. The purpose of this study is to determine which, if any, of the five historic industrial sites appear to be eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. To determine eligibility, this report summarizes the development of milling and hydroelectric industries in south-central and southwest Georgia, and site-specific histories are provided for each of the five sites. Historic resources that may be affected by dam repair or reconstruction are documented through site descriptions, maps, and photographs. Assessments are also made of the potential for these sites to yield important archaeological data. Based on information gained through historical research and field survey, the significance of each site's historic resources is evaluated and a determination made as to whether each site retains sufficient value and integrity to be eligible for inclusion on the National Register. The five sites include Houston Lake Dam in Houston County, Whitewater Lake Dam in Macon County, Taylor Mill (Potterville Lake Dam) in Potterville, Hortman Mill Dam in Crawford County, and Merritt Mill (County Road #3) in Randolph County. Each site evaluation is summarized below.