The City of Jefferson's bountiful community has a rich and interesting history. Only an hour's drive from Atlanta, Jefferson was designated the county seat of Jackson County on November 24, 1806. The city, named for President Thomas Jefferson, was the site of a previous Indian settlement named Thomoccoggan. The city was then incorporated as Jeffersonville. Later, the name was changed to Jeffersonton and finally shortened to its current name on June 30, 1824. Dr. Crawford W. Long first used ether for surgery in Jefferson on March 30, 1842. Gently rolling hills and picturesque buildings provide the backdrop for this inviting city. The City's leadership is working to maintain Jefferson's small town character while strongly encouraging the development of new industries to employ the growing local workforce.