If you’re looking for new townhomes in Villa Rica, you might be surprised to learn just how rich in history this charming town really is. Known today for its welcoming community and convenient location about 30 miles from Atlanta, Villa Rica was once home to one of America’s earliest gold rushes. Now, homebuyers can experience life in this golden town at Rivershire Place, a new Rockhaven Homes townhome community.
Villa Rica’s story is rooted in gold. The area’s first mining town, called Hixtown (located about a mile north of present-day downtown), was settled around 1826. Later that same year, gold was discovered nearby in the Pine Mountain area. This marked the start of Georgia’s gold history, even before the famous rush in Dahlonega in 1828.
The area grew rapidly, with Hixtown and nearby Cheevestown housing nearly 60% of Carroll County’s population at the time. In 1881, the towns were incorporated together as Villa Rica, meaning “rich village” in Spanish. When the railroad came through in 1882, many of the town’s buildings were moved closer to the new rail line, creating what is now the historic downtown.
Gold mining peaked quickly, with 19 active mines in the region. But by the early 1900s, most of the easily accessible gold was gone. During World War II, the federal government shut down non-essential mining to redirect efforts to the war, officially closing Villa Rica’s chapter in gold.
But the town didn’t fade. As the gold dust settled, Villa Rica entered its next boom — and this time, it was driven by industry.
In the wake of mining’s decline, Villa Rica shifted into a new industrial phase: textile manufacturing. Starting with the Villa Rica Cotton Mill, founded in 1906 in the nearby town of Fullerville, the industry expanded rapidly.
By 1935, Carroll County had become a hub of hosiery production, and World War II accelerated demand. Local mills secured government contracts to produce socks and military textiles, fueling economic growth through the 1940s.
The area’s textile industry thrived until the passage of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994, which shifted textile production overseas.
Over time, Villa Rica transformed from a mining settlement to a textile hub — and now into a charming small city, balancing historical preservation with modern living. You’ll still find historic brick buildings and local shops downtown, but now they’re paired with cozy cafés, parks, and plenty of activities to enjoy — like visiting the Pine Mountain Gold Museum.
Each fall, the annual Gold Rush Festival draws thousands to celebrate the town’s heritage with parades, food, live music, and gold panning competitions. And with easy access to I-20, Villa Rica offers a peaceful, small-town feel with a quick commute to Atlanta.
In the heart of Villa Rica, now called the “City of Gold”, Rivershire Place by Rockhaven Homes offers a new kind of treasure: stylish townhomes designed for easy, everyday living. Starting in the mid-$200s, each home features a bright, open layout and modern finishes. Plus, with lawn care and exterior maintenance covered by your HOA, you’ll have more time to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and small-town charm that make this community shine.
There’s something special about living in a town that honors its past while building for the future. At Rivershire Place, you’re not just buying a home — you’re becoming part of a legacy. From weekend strolls through downtown to seasonal festivals and local museum visits, life in Villa Rica is full of charm and character.
Make your move to a community that’s as rich in history as it is in opportunity. Explore our new townhomes in Villa Rica at Rivershire Place and find a golden lifestyle for you and your family.
Sales and Marketing by Rockhaven Realty · 470-730-4131
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