city, seat (1835) of Union county, northern Georgia, U.S., in the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the Blue Ridge and Nottely dams. Laid out in 1832 on land ceded by the Cherokee Indians, it was a centre for gold-mining activities until 1910. Blairsville lies in a heavily forested area and is headquarters for the adjacent Brasstown Ranger District of Chattahoochee National Forest; agricultural products include sorghum, corn (maize), and beef. Tourism also contributes to the economy. Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia, is 9 miles (14 km) to the east, and the Appalachian National Scenic Trail traverses the area to the south. Vogel State Park, a popular resort located at the foot of Blood Mountain 11 miles (18 km) south of Blairsville, is another of the area's attractions. Inc. 1835. Pop. (1990) 564; (2000) 659.