Investing in Local History

If you are like me, you are a recent resident of Duluth, Georgia, (or live nearby) and do not have "roots" here. You moved here because of the excellent schools, the wonderful "small town" feel, or the business opportunities. Did you know that there is an active group of people here, working tirelessly to preserve the history of this area? If you do not have a natural inclination for history, you may question why you should join local history groups such as the Duluth Historical Society and the Southeastern Railway Museum. Here are my reasons (besides having a love of history):

1. By living here, you are now helping to shape Duluth's story. At one time, Duluth was more like most small towns in Georgia: There were Caucasian residents and African-American residents. Today, that is not the case. At Chattahoochee Elementary alone, there are 30-40 countries around the world represented by the children attending the school. Growing up with so much diversity is a great experience for the younger generation. We need to work to make sure that all these rich stories are not lost. Documenting the different cultures who now call Duluth their home will show future generations what a great place Duluth was to live and work.

2. Historical tourism benefits the entire area. In the 2003 study, "Georgia Heritage: Promoting Cultural, Educational, and Economic Development," the Governor’s Commission on Georgia History and Historical Tourism clearly shows that cultural heritage visitors typically stay longer and spend more in the area they are visiting. This helps the restaurants, the local shops, and the hotels. On the website of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the rehabilitation of historic properties in Georgia during a five-year period created 7,550 jobs and $201 million in earnings." (2008). By joining a local history society or museum, you are helping to invest in the economic growth of the area.

3. It is a great way to meet new people. When I first moved here to Duluth, other than the people we were meeting through the school, we didn't know anyone here. Through events that the Duluth Historical Society hosts, such as the October "Chattapoochie Pet Fest" and meeting Santa Claus on a train at the Southeastern Railway Museum, we were able to make new connections to the local area. Both museums host a wide range of events, most at low-cost, and are great ithings to do with your family.

We are very lucky in Duluth to have two museums on Buford Highway: The Historic Strickland House (closer to Old Peachtree Road) and the Southeastern Railway Museum (closer to Pleasant Hill Road). In between these museums are the wonderful Town Green, the new Duluth City Hall, and all the historic downtown Main Street shops. Duluth residents have a rich history here. Make sure to explore it!