Science Fair Project Encyclopedia
Uwharrie Mountains
The Uwharrie Mountains are an ancient coastal mountain range located in present day North Carolina. Forming 500 million years ago, the Uwharries are the oldest mountain range in North America. While the range once peaked at 20,000 feet, erosion has weathered it to 1,000 feet. These hills are more commonly considered part of the Piedmont. The Sandhills region formed as sand was deposited at the base of the mountains by the Atlantic Ocean.
The mountains give their name to the Uwharrie Forest. Once entirely cleared for timber and farmland, it was designated a U.S. National Forest in 1961 by John F. Kennedy. The area contains a diversity of wildlife, recreational facilities, and numerous Native American archeological sites.
In 1799, the discovery of gold at nearby Reed Gold Mine led to America's first gold rush in the Uwharries.
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