Named for Colonel George Washington Scott, Scottdale emerged as a mill town. He founded the Scottdale Cotton Mill in the late 1800s.
Scottdale’s story begins with the vision of Colonel Scott. He was a former Confederate Army officer. Scott also owned a plantation. He moved here to build the Scottdale Cotton Mill. Around the mill, small homes began to appear. These were for the mill workers and their families. For decades, the Scottdale Cotton Mill thrived. It became the heart of this growing community.
Imagine Scottdale in its early days. The rhythmic hum of the mill filled the air. Workers diligently operated the looms inside. Outside, families lived in modest homes. They created a close-knit community. Everyone here was connected through the mill.
Scottdale was more than just a place to work. It was a place to live and raise families. The community had its own schools and churches. These institutions played a vital role in shaping Scottdale’s identity. They provided education, spiritual guidance, and a sense of belonging.
Colonel Scott wasn’t only focused on industry. He was also a benefactor of the female seminary. That female seminary later became Agnes Scott College. His commitment to education helped establish Scottdale as a place of learning.
Interestingly, Scottdale had a racially divided community. The Georgia Railroad track separated the white families from the black families. White families lived in mill-owned houses on the west side. Black families settled in the hilly areas on the east side.
In 1982, the Scottdale Cotton Mill closed its doors. This marked the end of an era. Many employees found work in other parts of Atlanta. They chose to remain in their homes. This preserved the community’s spirit.
Scottdale’s location is quite strategic. It sits between Decatur and Clarkston. Interstate 285 forms its eastern border. This location provides residents with easy access to major Atlanta thoroughfares.
Despite its small size, Scottdale offers numerous amenities. There are recreation centers, parks, and green spaces. These provide residents with ample opportunities for leisure and recreation.
Your DeKalb Farmers Market is located here. It is a huge market. It is open seven days a week. It offers every type of fresh food imaginable. Many people shop here for hard-to-find ingredients.
Today, Scottdale is experiencing revitalization. New developments are taking place alongside historic homes. This blend of old and new gives Scottdale a unique character. It continues to be a charming and appealing place to call home.
Take a moment to appreciate the history of Scottdale. From its origins as a mill town to its present-day revitalization, Scottdale has a rich story to tell.