The Atlanta History Center: a tour through time
Published: Feb 23, 2009
From the Civil War to the Centennial Olympic Games, Atlanta's history is monumental. Whether you are a history buff or just the opposite, there is a pretty good chance you will find something to enjoy at the Atlanta History Center.
As the most populous metropolitan area in Georgia, there is much to be said about how Atlanta got to this point. And the center tries to say it all in the most engaging way possible, much to the delight of non-historians and students (who make up a large portion of daily visitors).
The six signature exhibitions — Turning Point: The American Civil War; Metropolitan Frontiers; Shaping Traditions: Folk Arts in a Changing South; Centennial Olympic Games Museum (and Sports Lab); Down the Fairway with Bobby Jones; and the Philip Trammell Shutze: Atlanta Classicist, Connoisseur and Collector — are a testament to the center's carefully created interactive learning environment.
And that's not even taking into account the traveling exhibits often on display, or the historic homes to be toured on and off premises including, The Swan House, the Tullie Smith Farm and the Margaret Mitchell House and Museum.
The center is home to one of the largest Civil War exhibits in the nation. More than 1,400 original artifacts from both the Union and Confederate armies are displayed year round.
In Metropolitan Frontiers, every aspect of Atlanta history from Indian settlements to the Civil Rights movement is tracked. Southern folk culture is brought to life through art, furniture and instrument displays.
Golf lovers will pour over the artifacts, photographs, trophies and equipment which chronicle the evolution of the game in the Bobby Jones exhibit. The Philip Trammel Shutze collection of art and furniture from the 17th-19th century is an interior decorators dream. And finally, the impact of the Centennial Olympic Games on both Atlanta and world history is fully embraced.
Whatever your interest, put on your walking shoes and plan to spend the day — because there is no shortage of things to see and do.
- by Christine Foster, Atlanta Reporter for HelloMetro
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