08/25/2026
Documentary Screening and Reception: Sweet Sorghum in the Mountains
Tuesday, September 15, 5-7 pm
Vickery House, Dahlonega
Please join us for a celebration of North Georgia sorghum! We will be presenting a new documentary about sorghum production featuring the Hughes Sorghum Mill and an exhibit of photographs by Gracie Hughes, accompanied by a biscuit-baking competition and various sorghum-based treats. Bring your best biscuits and an appetite!
Workshop: Sorghum 101
Tuesday, September 29, 5-6:30 pm
Vickery House, Dahlonega
Meet Terry Hughes, the last sweet sorghum syrup producer in far North Georgia. Taught by his parents, Terry Hughes has been making and selling sorghum syrup for over 60 years. Dr. Kathleen Thompson will explain how the grain’s usage traveled from China and South Africa to Appalachia. The 1939 agricultural census documented sorghum cultivation on 642 farms, resulting in 61,000 gallons of sorghum produced in Union and Towns Counties. Today there is only one major producer, and production is under 2,000 gallons. What is the past and the future of sweet sorghum in Appalachian North Georgia? Hear Terry’s story, learn about sorghum syrup, and find out where you can still see this regional sweetener produced.
Workshop: Cooking With Sorghum
Monday, October 19, 5-6:30 pm
Vickery House, Dahlonega
Learn, taste, and add to your healthy diet. Dr. Kathleen Thompson will share the history of sorghum growing and syrup production and survey the health benefits of sweet sorghum syrup as a cooking ingredient. Try a chewy sorghum cookie and participate in a cooking project. Sorghum popcorn balls, Boston brown bread in a paper cup, and a sorghum dipping sauce will be made. Take a handout with more recipes to try at home.
All events are free and open to the public. Parking is available for free in the UNG lot on Vickery Drive (permits are not enforced after 5 pm). ADA parking is available at the Vickery House, which is fully accessible.
