10 history lessons you’ll find in Atlanta
Educational landmarks from the museum to the grave
Photo credit: Joeff Davis/CL File
Since 1837, the City of Atlanta has written itself into the history books, for better or worse. Then again, nobody’s backstory is perfect. To understand ATL’s present culture, quirks, and future potential is to visit the museums, cemeteries, and National Historic sites and landmarks that help tell our long, awesomely complicated story.
Apex Museum
African-American Panoramic Experience features permanent exhibits depicting history from the perspective of African-Americans. Includes a replica of the Yates and Milton Drug Store, one of Atlanta’s first black-owned businesses, and other artifacts, photographs and multimedia presentations on the Af...
|
more...
Atlanta History Center
Founded in 1926, the center includes the Atlanta History Museum featuring signature and traveling exhibitions, the Smith Family Farm, the 1928 Swan House mansion, research archives/special libraries, and 22 acres of gardens.
|
more...
Hammonds House Museum
CL: An institution devoted to artists of African descent in a historic 1872 home once owned by Dr. Otis Thrash Hammonds. Regular exhibitions of contemporary artists complement a permanent collection that includes work by Romare Bearden, Hale Woodruff, James Van Der Zee and others.
No description provided
|
more...
Herndon Home Museum
Although born into slavery, Alonzo Herndon became a barbershop mogul and the richest black man in Atlanta by the early years of the 20th century. His mansion is available for tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
|
more...
Margaret Mitchell House
The house where much of Gone with the Wind was written beckons to tourists and native Atlantans alike who want to understand more about the author of the most popular novel of all time. The house also plays an important part in keeping Atlanta’s literary scene alive through regular events with local...
|
more...
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
This strip of destinations along Auburn Avenue provides a variety of ways to learn about the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life and legacy. At the birth home, tour guides give insights into King’s younger years and the discipline that led to his success as a speaker and scholar. At the King Center, ...
|
more...
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Atlanta’s newest museum near the World of Coca-Cola is designed to pay tribute to men and women who have fought for equality and justice throughout the world. The Downtown attraction notably exhibits Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic collection of personal papers and artifacts. In addition, it ...
|
more...
Oakland Cemetery
Atlanta’s most historic and picturesque cemetery holds the remains of Margaret Mitchell, Bobby Jones, once-enslaved individuals, and nearly 7,000 Confederate soldiers.
|
more...
The Wren’s Nest House Museum
The home of Joel Chandler Harris, author of the Uncle Remus tales, has recently undergone a revival shepherded by a descendant of the post-Civil War Atlanta writer. Sessions by master storytellers are the central attraction at the beautiful Victorian house.
|
more...
Waffle House Museum
You heard right, we said, “Waffle House Museum.” In 1955, neighbors Joe Roger Sr. and Tom Forkner embarked on a plan to smother and cover the world (or at least Avondale Estates) with 24-hour dining. More than 50 years and 1,600 restaurants later, the chain’s original location still stands as a test...
|
more...
The list above first appeared in the 2015 CL Cityguide and was updated by CL Staff in 2020.