Fayette County, Georgia is an inspiring example of a rural-turned-suburban community, forged by a commitment to preserve the county’s past. This area, known as the “Pearl of Metro Atlanta’s Southern Crescent Region” bespeaks tremendous progress in only four decades and retains charm, amenities, and excitement. From designated Main Street Fayetteville in 1996 to the historic mill house and dam of Starr’s Mill, to the Holliday Dorsey Fife House museum serving as a reminder of generations past, there are plenty of reflections of pride throughout the county.
Rich History and Tradition
Fayette County is steeped in history and tradition, with a unique heritage that dates back to the Revolutionary War. It was at Fayetteville where the first Constitution of Georgia was ratified in 1777, and the county has since been home to numerous notable figures, including Confederate General Robert E. Lee and President Jimmy Carter’s father. In addition to its historical significance, the area boasts beautiful parks and trails, along with several nearby attractions, such as Stone Mountain Park, Atlanta Motor Speedway, and the Peachtree City Falcon Field Airport.
Fayette County is a magnificent area of Georgia, boasting charm, excitement, and a rich past. As the “Pearl of Metro Atlanta’s Southern Crescent Region”, Fayette County has experienced incredible progress in just four decades to become a thriving suburban community full of amenities and appeal. Residents have taken great pride in developing their once rural land, keen to enhance the quality of life for those who call this place home.
Starr’s Mill
Fayetteville proudly earned its Main Street City designation in 1996 and has been growing ever since. The downtown square is a testament to the past, preserving the historic streetscape while inviting new businesses to join the community. Residents enjoy the picturesque beauty of Starr’s Mill, which was bought by the Fayette County Water System in 1991 and includes 16 acres of land, the mill house, and the iconic dam. Visitors are awed by the waterfalls, which remind them of the 1800s when mills were common and relied on water power for logging and cotton industries. Hilliard Starr began working the mill in 1866, leaving the lasting legacy of the Starr name in Fayetteville.
Restoring the Holliday Dorsey Fife House
The Holliday Dorsey Fife House is a symbol of pride and achievement for the local community. Built-in 1855, it served as a boarding facility for Fayetteville Academy students and faculty. Thanks to the dedication of the Holliday House Association, the house was restored to its original glory in 1999 with the help of the Fayetteville Downtown Development Authority. The Holliday Dorsey Fife Museum stands today as a reminder of the community’s commitment to preserving the past, even though it is currently closed.
Honoring the Region’s Rich History
Residents of Fayetteville and Fayette County have much to be proud of as they commemorate the 200th anniversary of their namesake, Marquis De LaFayette. The Historical Society continues to honor the region’s rich history by making materials and stories of its past available to the public, while also hosting the highly-anticipated Fayette County Bicentennial Parade, which draws in both new residents and visitors from near and far.
With a deep appreciation for the past and an eye for the future, Fayette County is truly a unique and thriving community.
From its roots as a rural area to its current status as one of metro Atlanta’s most thriving suburban communities, Fayette County has come a long way in 40 years. The community places a high value on preserving its past, intending to honor historic figures and sites like Holliday Dorsey Fife House and Starr’s Mill while developing their contemporary version of southern charm. Fayetteville embraces with equal excitement the explosive growth and recreation ways of modern-day life while continuing relative stability that runs around and throughout all generations. Whether you are looking for a historical tour or hopping old aboutgaeaton bustling today’s downtown square, Fayette County has something perfect for visitors and residents alike.
