Fayetteville, Georgia is filled with unique history and culture. From its stunning sights like Starr’s Mill to the proudly maintained streetscape given the Main Street City designation; there is so much to learn and explore about Fayette County. Whether one is a visitor or a fifth-generation resident, this beautiful county in Metro Atlanta’s Southern Crescent Region has something to offer to everyone.
Five Facts About Fayetteville
1. Fayetteville was founded in 1823
2. It is the county seat of Fayette County
3. The city has a population of 15,945 as of 2020
4. It is home to the Georgia National Cemetery
5. Fayetteville is home to many historic sites and buildings, including the Old Fayette County Courthouse, the Confederate Monument, and the Fayette County Jail Museum.
Fayetteville, Georgia is a beautiful and historical area. It has been home to many proud Georgians for generations. With its rich past, there is much to learn and discover about Fayette County. For those seeking to explore the history of this area, here are five facts that you may not have known about Fayetteville.
Growth and Development
Fayette County has become renowned as the “Pearl of Metro Atlanta’s Southern Crescent Region” due to its incredible growth and development over four decades. Residents have worked hard to create a thriving suburban community, providing all the amenities necessary for a high quality of life. In 1996, Fayetteville was honored with the Main Street City designation, which has made it possible to maintain a nostalgic historic streetscape while also welcoming new businesses and residents.
A Slice of History
Starr’s Mill is a remarkable sight in the Fayette County area. Acquired by the Fayette County Water System in 1991, this 16-acre slice of history includes the mill house and the iconic dam. Its waterfalls provide a tranquil experience for visitors, who can take pleasure in reminiscing over a time when mills dotted the landscape and symbolized the reliance on water power for logging and cotton industries. Hilliard Starr took ownership of the mill in 1866, and it was his name that has become synonymous with the beloved mill. The residents of Fayetteville cherish the legacy of Starr’s Mill, which proudly stands as a major attraction in Fayette County.
Restoring the Past: The Holliday Dorsey Fife House
The Holliday Dorsey Fife House is a testament to the resilience of community spirit and the pride in preserving the past. Built-in 1855, it served as a boarding facility for local Fayetteville Academy students and faculty. In 1999, an impressive restoration effort was spearheaded by the Holliday House Association, which was taken on with enthusiasm by the Fayetteville Downtown Development Authority. The result is an awe-inspiring historical museum that stands proudly as a reminder of the mid-1800s. Though currently closed, the Holliday Dorsey Fife Museum is a reminder of the community’s commitment to safeguarding its legacy.
Celebrating Fayette County’s Rich Heritage
The Fayette County Bicentennial Parade is a momentous occasion to commemorate the rich heritage of the region. Named after one of George Washington’s lieutenants, Marquis De LaFayette, during the Revolutionary War, Fayette County and the city of Fayetteville has been celebrated through this parade for 200 years. The Historical Society works tirelessly to make materials and stories of the area’s legacy available to the public, and the Fayette County Bicentennial Parade is just one of the many events that draw new residents and visitors to Fayetteville.
Fayetteville, Georgia is an extraordinary city of incredible growth and historical significance, earning it the affectionate nickname, “Pearl of Metro Atlanta’s Southern Crescent.” This charming destination showcases iconic sites such as Starr’s Mill and a revitalized Main Street that ensures visitors can truly experience the area founder’s passions for business and hosting a thriving community. Whether exploring its past or investing in new improvement projects, one thing is for sure: Fayetteville is a beautiful and unique place with much to offer.
