Dear Ms. Seltzer, The reason so many people left Northwest Georgia in the years immediately following the War Between the States was because of the economic and political conditions during Reconstruction. Eastern Tennessee and North Georgia were largely divided in its loyalties during the war. Following the war, Unionist often sought retribution against those that had Secessionist loyality. Many examples can be found of assassinations, rapes, murder, robbery, and other intimidation acts. As a result, people left by the wagon train load to settle in Arkansas, the Indian Territory (today known as the state of Oklahoma), and Texas. Many of the descendants of these men and women can be found today in the Fort Worth-Dallas area and outlying areas. I hope this helps and please let me know if you have any questions. Gerald D. Hodge, Jr. War Between the States Historian Historian: 39th Georgia Volunteer Infantry Regiment http://39thgavolinfrgt.homestead.com/39thHomepage.html Warner Robins, Georgia