Peachtree Corners, located in the north-central part of Georgia, has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. From its early days as a farming community to its current status as a thriving city, Peachtree Corners has been shaped by the hard work and dedication of its residents.
The area that is now Peachtree Corners was originally part of Cherokee Indian Territory. However, after the Indian Removal Act of 1830, which forced the relocation of Native American tribes from the southeastern United States, the land was opened up for settlement. In 1821, the first white settlers arrived in the area and began farming the land.
The name Peachtree Corners is said to have originated from the abundance of peach trees that grew in the area, and the location of the community at the intersection of Peachtree Parkway and Holcomb Bridge Road. In the early days, agriculture was the mainstay of the economy, with cotton being the most important crop. The first cotton gin in the area was built in 1845, and by the late 1800s, there were several cotton gins operating in the community.
In the early 1900s, the automobile began to change the landscape of Peachtree Corners. The community was located on the main road between Atlanta and Athens, and as a result, it became a popular spot for tourists and travelers. In 1913, the Dixie Highway was built, which connected Chicago to Miami and passed through Peachtree Corners. This brought even more visitors to the area, and several roadside businesses, including gas stations, motels, and restaurants, sprang up to cater to them.
The community continued to grow throughout the 1900s, with the construction of new homes, schools, and businesses. In 1957, the city of Norcross was incorporated, which included much of what is now Peachtree Corners. However, in 2012, Peachtree Corners became its own city, with a population of over 40,000.
One of the most notable features of Peachtree Corners is its commitment to technology and innovation. In the 1970s, a group of local businessmen formed the Technology Park/Atlanta, which was one of the first technology parks in the country. The park was designed to attract high-tech companies to the area and provide them with the infrastructure and support they needed to succeed.
Today, Peachtree Corners is home to several major technology companies, including Fiserv, NCR, and Scientific Games. In 2017, the city launched a project called “Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners,” which is a 5G-enabled autonomous vehicle and smart city living laboratory. The project is designed to attract entrepreneurs and startups to the area and help them develop new technologies and products.
Despite its rapid growth and modernization, Peachtree Corners has also worked hard to preserve its history and culture. The city has several historic sites and landmarks, including the Norcross Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district includes several restored buildings from the 1800s, including the Norcross Cotton Mill, which was built in 1882 and now serves as a mixed-use development.
In addition to its history and technology, Peachtree Corners also boasts a strong sense of community. The city has several parks and recreational areas, including Jones Bridge Park, which is located on the Chattahoochee River and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a boat launch. The city also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Peachtree Corners Festival, which features live music, food vendors, and a carnival.
The rich history of Peachtree Corners is a testament to the hard work and dedication of its residents. One of the reasons for Peachtree Corners’ success is its strategic location. It is located just 20 miles northeast of Atlanta, which is one of the largest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. This proximity to Atlanta has allowed Peachtree Corners to attract businesses and investors, as well as talented workers who are drawn to the area’s thriving job market.
Another key factor in Peachtree Corners’ success is its commitment to education. The city has a highly regarded public school system, which includes several top-ranked schools. In addition, there are several private schools in the area, including Wesleyan School, which is one of the top-ranked private schools in the state.
Peachtree Corners is also home to several institutions of higher learning, including Georgia Gwinnett College, which is a four-year college that offers degrees in a variety of fields. The college is located in Technology Park/Atlanta, which provides students with opportunities for internships and employment with local technology companies.
Despite its rapid growth and modernization, Peachtree Corners has not forgotten its roots. The city has several historic sites and landmarks, including the Simpsonwood Conference and Retreat Center, which was originally a plantation and later became a camp for the YMCA. The center is now used for conferences and events, and its historic buildings and beautiful grounds provide a glimpse into the area’s past.
In addition, Peachtree Corners has several parks and green spaces, including the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, which is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The city also has several local parks and trails, including the Peachtree Corners Greenway, which is a 2.5-mile multi-use trail that connects several local neighborhoods.
Overall, the rich history of Peachtree Corners is a testament to the resilience and hard work of its residents. From its early days as a farming community to its current status as a thriving city, Peachtree Corners has been shaped by the forces of change and progress. Today, it is a vibrant and dynamic community that continues to attract businesses, investors, and talented workers from around the world.