Gold Panning

Most people are unaware that the very first Gold Rush in the US was in Monroe County, Tennessee, right in the area of Coker Creek. Gold was first discovered here in 1827 but the land was owned by the Cherokee nation at the time and the boom was considered as unofficial. The official boom didn't start until around 1836 when it became clear that the native Cherokee and other tribes would not lay claim on the gold since they were being deported on the infamous "Trail of Tears" ordered by Congress and President Andrew Jackson, in defiance of Supreme Court Chief Justice John Marshall.

As soon as it became clear that all potential problems were cleared, the Gold Rush began and people with the hopes of panning more gold they can ever dream of winning via games of chance like bingo came pouring in. By then, however, the "official" Gold Rush had already started in Dahlonega, Georgia.

The Gold belt lies within the Cherokee National Forest and surrounding areas. Gold panning is allowed throughout the forest, but to dredge or sluice you need a permit. Contact the Tellico Ranger District, Rout 3, Tellico River Road, P.O. Box 339, Tellico Plains TN 37385. Phone 615-253-2520.

TENNESSEE GOLD & GEMS is located in beautiful "downtown" Coker Creek and features prospecting supplies, gold pans, metal detectors and gemstones. Owner Tim LeGrand also has a backyard sleuce set up to allow guests to try some gold and gem panning for a small fee. Visit Tim's website at www.TNGold.com or call him at (423) 261-2060.

Visit The LOST SEA off Highway 68 just south of Sweetwater, TN and Exit 60 off I-75 between Chattanooga and Knoxville. In addition to the largest underground lake in North America, these folks have a regular pioneer village and General Store on hand where you can discover gold in many forms. They also have an authentic mining sleuce on site for visitors.