Atlanta Real Estate > Decatur
Atlanta Communities: Deacatur
Originally called Dawson's Camp, Decatur, was named for American naval officer Stephen Decatur, who fought in the War of 1812. Decatur was incorporated in 1822, making this the oldest city in DeKalb County. Older brick homes, smaller bungalows and cottage homes are abundant in this area. Renovation of Decatur has been ongoing, giving a facelift to an area that was becoming a bit shopworn. Renovation efforts of Decatur Square preserved the small storefront motifs and provided the feel of a different era, with the center of attention being the old CourtHouse. The square is the gathering place for entertainment, shopping and dining. Host to numerous festivals, town celebrations and neighborhood parties, which provide entertainment for all ages. Local draws include Mick's, Eddie's Attic and the Freight Room, for those that want entertainment without having to travel too far. Decatur's population is diverse, encompassing the young to the more mature, to the college crowds. Home to Agnes Scott College, a prestigious all girls school; and just outside the city limits, Emory University, well known for its Medical and Law schools. Easy accessibility to all major expressways
The Decatur community is a rich blend of tradition, diversity and visionary growth. You can see it in the tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes and lush landscapes of the older neighborhoods . . . attractive, well-planned condominium and townhome developments near downtown . . . streetscape enhancements in the town center area around the square . . . thriving restaurants and retail shops offering wide choices for dining and shopping . . . churches of almost every denomination . . . schools rated among the best in the country . . . historic places lovingly preserved for future generations . . . all this is why approximately 18,000 people, representing all ages, races, cultures and life styles, are glad to call Decatur home.
History
Founded in 1823, Decatur is the second oldest municipality in the Atlanta metropolitan area and the seat of DeKalb County. Decatur adjoins Atlanta's city limits six miles east of Atlanta's central business district. Decatur has 18,000 residents and 8,000 households, although its daytime population swells to 24,000.
The Old Courthouse on the Square in Downtown Decatur stands on a rise of land where two Indian trails once crossed. Historically, the courthouse square served as the community gathering place. Today it continues to be the focus of festivals and special events and serves as the heart of the community.
Decatur was incorporated December 1O, 1823, and named after Stephen Decatur, a U.S. Naval hero. It is said that early residents rejected a proposal by the Western and Atlantic Railroad to make Decatur a major stop on its new line in the 1830s. These citizens did not want the noise, smoke and confusion, and turned the railroad down. The railroad thus moved seven miles west to a small settlement called Terminus. In 1843, that settlement was renamed Marthasville, and two years later became Atlanta.