By 1873 cotton trade was a major industry. Among the men attracted by the industry was Albert Shorter, who founded Shorter College. The city is now set for an expansion unlike any city in North Georgia. By 1880 the Nevin Opera House is completed. Long distance telephone arrives the same year.
Electric lighting is installed and a new city hall is built.
Electric streetcars make their debut in 1885. Unbeknownst to the people of Rome, the stage is set for utter destruction. Downtown Rome, Ga. during The Flood of 1886 Nevins Opera House is to the right. Only the top floor of the Rome Area History Museum can be seen above the water to the left. The Nevins Opera House burned in 1919.