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Festival founder Goswick dies at 75
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Local historian Fred Goswick, passed away Sunday, Feb. 12. He was 75.

Known as the founder of Dawson Countys Mountain Moonshine Festival, Goswick was a reformed moonshiner. He was influential in preserving Dawson Countys deep moonshine roots.

Fred had the most information about the moonshine history of Dawson County, said local historian Gordon Pirkle. He lived it in his early years, running liquor back and forth down Hwy. 9 to Atlanta. He continued researching and promoting it in a good way.

Goswick was an expert wood carver and practiced his art by carving memorabilia of legendary race cars, their drivers and the tracks they raced on.

Once Im gone, Im hoping the memories of moonshining will live on. It was a thrill, but Ive got my fingers crossed that folks will always remember it as a way of life and the difference between eating and going hungry, as quoted on Goswicks website.

Survivors include his three sons, Tim Goswick of Dawsonville, and Steve Goswick and Scott Goswick, both of Gainesville.

The family will receive friends Feb. 15, from noon to 9 p.m. at Bearden Funeral Home.

The funeral services will be private.

Flowers are appreciated or donations can be made in memory of Goswick to the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, P.O. Box 1561, Dawsonville, GA 30534.