Druid Hills Historic District

Why did Coca-Cola’s founder choose Druid Hills? Let’s unravel this tale right here, amidst the grandeur of Druid Hills Historic District. This isn’t just a neighborhood; it’s a meticulously crafted time capsule. Founded in 1893 by Joel Hurt, the visionary behind Atlanta’s first streetcar suburb, Druid Hills Historic District was designed to be a haven of picturesque living. The renowned Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr., the mastermind behind Central Park, lent his genius to this project. Olmsted’s vision transformed Ponce de Leon Avenue into a grand, curving parkway. Imagine a central spine of green, adorned with six interconnected parks, a reimagining of the traditional village green. This “emerald necklace,” as some call it, became the heart of Druid Hills Historic District. The neighborhood’s development began in 1905, with a focus on preserving the natural beauty of the area. Peavine Creek’s valleys became natural havens. Trees were planted strategically, creating pockets of shade and greenery lining the streets. Homes were set back from the road on spacious lots, providing a sense of privacy and grandeur. As you wander through Druid Hills Historic District, observe the architectural diversity of the stately mansions. Many of Atlanta’s leading architects contributed to this tapestry of styles, from Colonial Revival to Tudor Revival and Italian Renaissance. In 1908, Asa Griggs Candler, the founder of Coca-Cola, acquired the development, adding his own touch to this burgeoning community. He built his own impressive mansion at 1428 Ponce de Leon Avenue. This solidified Druid Hills Historic District as a prestigious address. In 1915, Candler made another significant contribution to Druid Hills Historic District, relocating Emory University’s main campus to a sprawling 631-acre site within the neighborhood. This further enhanced the area’s intellectual and cultural appeal. Druid Hills Historic District continued to evolve. A country club and golf course were added in 1924, providing recreational opportunities for residents. Residential construction continued through 1936. In the latter half of the 20th century, residents of Druid Hills Historic District demonstrated their commitment to preserving Olmsted’s vision. They successfully fought against plans for a highway and an expressway expansion that would have compromised the neighborhood’s character. Today, the Olmsted Linear Park Alliance carries on this legacy. It works diligently to protect and maintain the integrity of Olmsted’s design. It is a collaborative effort involving the City of Atlanta, DeKalb County, and Fernbank, Inc. This ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Druid Hills Historic District.