Mini History Lessons

Ann McDermitt - Atlanta
November 16, 2011

Want to give your family an understanding of where they live? Would you like to introduce new experiences as your children grow? Situate yourself in one of Atlanta's history filled settings and history will come alive in their eyes. Children understand history by exploration and hands on experience. The Savvy Source has found some historical sites in Atlanta to investigate with your family. 

Discover American Indians in Georgia 

Long before Atlanta was known as the peach state, it was home to American Indians who inhabited this land before explorers like Hernando De Soto arrived. In fact, by the time he rode into the Etowah there was a beautifully civilized and modern city in place with roads, a town square, and a sophisticated plan to harvest fish and mussels. You can visit the remaining mounds at the Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site in Cartersville, Georgia. The remnants of a society that will fascinate even today. 

Explore Martin Luther King's Legacy

The Sweet Auburn District is home to the roots of one of our greatest humanitarian leaders. Martin Luther King, Jr. was born on Auburn Avenue in 1929. Walking tours are available for this neighborhood. Tours are available for his home (First come, first serve so get there early.) Grab breakfast and perfectly roasted coffee at the Cafe Campesino inside the Sweet Auburn Curb Market. Don't miss The King Center that serves as a memorial to MLK, Jr. and also the Ebenezer Baptist Church which is considered the spiritual heart of the Sweet Auburn neighborhood. This is where he was Minister throughout his lifetime, at one point serving alongside his father, Martin Luther King, Sr. 

Experience an Architectural Masterpiece

In Midtown Atlanta The Fox Theatre is the location of hip concerts, Broadway and dance performances, and Mighty Mo Organ Sing-A-Longs - it is truly a cultural magnet for our city. On your first visit you will be amazed at the Moorish Architecture in every detail. The Fabulous Fox was designed and built just prior to the Great Stock Market Crash of 1929 as a Shriner's temple. The lavishly decorated interior features a performance space which resembles an indoor Arabian courtyard with a sky full of flickering stars and magically drifting clouds; a spectacular striped canopy overhanging the balcony. As the performance progresses the sky turns from day to night magically Tours of The Fox Theatre are given by the Atlanta Preservation Center when the theater schedule allows.  

Hike a National Battlefield

Just a short drive from the Marietta Square is the landmark of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield. This preserved land was once involved in the Civil War and now thrives as a living memorial to those who lost their lives. This historical site is often busy with demonstrations of battlefield equipment, reenactments, and families enjoying the museum items and the hike around the mountain. Nearby is the Smithsonian's Southern Museum that also ties in nicely with the Civil War era history. The centerpiece of the museum is a locomotive that was stolen by Andrew's Union Raiders and used to sabotage the communications and railway lines from Atlanta to Chattanooga during a critical junction in the Civil War. This story has been reenacted in a realistic movie that brings the history to life. You can view The General Locomotive along with other interesting artifacts at the museum. Don't miss the new Jolly Education Wing, which was recently constructed. Two restaurant suggestions nearby are the Trackside Grill and the Big Shanty Smokehouse. Little ones love watching the modern day trains go by while they eat a southern-style lunch. 

Teach the World to Sing

Coca Cola's brand is synonymous with Atlanta and it's history presents a fascinating look at one company's walk through history. The World of Coke is filled with over 125 years of history and advertising evolution. The tour begins with the "open happiness" characters and ends with a sampling area of 60 different beverages produced for countries around the world. As you exit you are given a commemorative bottle of Coca Cola produced on the day of your visit. Nearby Luckie Street restaurants are a good choice or use the CNN Center food court to feed everyone. 

Learn from Atlanta's History Experts

The Atlanta History Center features archives from early settlers to the 2006 Centennial Olympics. It is currently featuring a special four year series called Civil War 150. There are two historic homes on the property: The Swan House and the Smith Family Farm, historic gardens, and the offsite location of author Margaret Mitchell's Home in Midtown Atlanta. With a concentration on "living history" for all ages, we urge you to check the events page for activities your family would enjoy. Three of our favorite local Buckhead restaurants are Souper Jenny, Fellini's Pizza, and Flip Burger to enjoy after a day's adventure through history.