Established in 1832 Cobb County boasts a rich history. It was carved from Cherokee lands. Named for Thomas Willis Cobb a prominent Georgian the county quickly grew. Marietta became its county seat in 1834.
Initially Cobb County was home to small farms. It lacked the large plantations common elsewhere in Georgia. This changed after the Cherokee removal in 1838. Towns and settlements expanded. Marietta became a popular resort town. Hotels and a sanitarium attracted visitors seeking relief from the coastal heat.
The Civil War dramatically impacted Cobb County. Several battles were fought here. The Battle of Kennesaw Mountain was a significant clash. The Andrews Raid a daring locomotive chase began at Big Shanty later renamed Kennesaw. The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History commemorates this pivotal era.
Following the war Cobb County’s economy struggled. Farming was difficult. Low-wage industries were prevalent. Then came a transformation. Bell Aircraft opened a plant in Marietta during World War II. This provided employment for thousands. Though the plant closed after the war it reopened during the Korean War as a Lockheed Martin facility. Lockheed-Georgia became a major employer producing iconic aircraft like the C-130 Hercules and the C-5 Galaxy.
Cobb County’s growth accelerated in the latter half of the 20th century. Suburbanization drew residents. The county’s population boomed. Its demographics shifted. It became more diverse. This led to a changing political landscape.
Today Cobb County is a vibrant part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. It boasts significant economic power. The Home Depot and Lockheed Martin have major presences here. The Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park anchors a major entertainment district. Cobb County has a rich tapestry of history culture and innovation. Its past is preserved in its museums and battlefields. Its future is bright filled with possibilities and growth.