Beyond the greens and fairways of a renowned golf course lies the vibrant neighborhood of East Lake. East Lake in Atlanta is steeped in history and community spirit. Let me share its captivating story.
East Lake is located just 4.5 miles from downtown Atlanta. It marks the easternmost edge of Atlanta’s 238 neighborhoods. This location gives it a unique blend of city access and suburban charm.
Once part of a 19th-century plantation, East Lake’s transformation began in 1892. The East Lake Land Company divided the land into lots. They even built a streetcar line to boost demand. Atlantans sought refuge from the city’s summer heat here. However, the recession of 1896 brought this early development to a halt.
Enter Asa Candler, the man who built Coca-Cola into a national icon. Around 1899, Candler secretly acquired land around the lake. His vision helped shape East Lake’s future.
In 1904, the Atlanta Athletic Club opened East Lake Golf Club. A streetcar line connected the club to Atlanta. Lawn bowling, tennis, and boating were as popular as golf back then. East Lake even incorporated as a town in 1908.
An auto road in 1912 further improved access. By 1916, a new school building signaled East Lake’s rise as a perfect suburban neighborhood. The demand for homes in East Lake was booming. In 1928, East Lake officially became part of the City of Atlanta.
Francis Marion Swanson, treasurer of the East Lake Land Company, played a key role in the neighborhood’s growth. He encouraged sports enthusiasts to move to East Lake. Many had ties to Georgia Tech. His guest house hosted notable figures including legendary golfer Bobby Jones.
Jones would drive onto the 9th fairway from Daniel Street to avoid the crowds. Imagine that sight today. During the early to mid-20th century, the East Lake community thrived around the Athletic Club. They had teams for swimming, tennis, and football. The Bachmann Farm provided horses for mowing the Golf Course. Later, the land became East Lake Park.
The Atlanta Athletic Club moved away in 1966. A new club bought the property and established what we know today as East Lake Golf Club.
The 1970s brought challenges. The East Lake Meadows housing project led to increased crime and declining quality of life. But in 1995, a turning point came. A private group partnered with the City of Atlanta to rebuild the area.
The Villages of East Lake replaced the Meadows. Crime rates decreased, and a community renaissance began. Residents worked to protect and preserve their neighborhood. Young urbanites were attracted to the charming homes. Property values rose dramatically.
In 2005, the East Lake Neighbors Community Association adopted East Lake Park. They partnered with Park Pride. Together, they created a vision for renovating the neglected park.
Volunteers built a new playground, shade structures, walking trails, and benches. They also added extensive plantings. Today, East Lake Park is a vibrant space with tennis courts and a baseball field.
In 2009, the East Lake Farmers Market began. It was a community effort to combat crime. The market has evolved into a charity. It focuses on building community through food. They host cook-offs, offer fresh produce, and partner to improve health outcomes.
East Lake’s story is one of transformation. It is a testament to community resilience. From plantation to golf haven to revitalized neighborhood, East Lake continues to evolve while preserving its rich history.