Beginning as a gold-mining town, Tallapoosa was known by several names in its early days, including Possum Snout, (named after a local Indian Chief) Pineville and Pine Grove. The Indian name of Tallapoosa was taken from the nearby river known by that name. In 1839, Tallapoosa established a post office and the town was incorporated in 1860.
In late 1886, a businessman Ralph L Spencer arrived in Tallapoosa, Georgia where he spent time in a variety of business ventures. It is Ralph L. Spencer who is credited for creating the late nineteenth century boom in Tallapoosa, Georgia.
Tallapoosa is a small town in a quaint setting, picturesque with historic homes, museums, and parks Although located just off busy I-20, you'll soon feel relaxed with Tallapoosa's slower pace and friendly smiles. Many honorable citizens have come from this community as shown by the Veterans Memorial and Medal of Honor Park. Once named Possum Snout, Tallapoosa celebrates its heritage every year with the Possum Drop to welcome the New Year.
The possum used in the NYE Celebration is a Taxidermied Possum named "Spencer" after Ralph L Spencer. The possum was found deceased in a roadway by local Taxidermist Bud Jones many years before the event began in the mid 1990's.
Recently NPR published a story on Bud and Jackie Jones and how he found the possum in the road. Click the More Button below to read the full story.
