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Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta

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Bosleys Place

Jewish Fertility Foundation

DeKalb History Center, based in Decatur, Georgia, collects, preserves, and shares the wide-ranging stories of the people and places of DeKalb County.

Decatur Book Festival

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Return to E.E. Bates- Decatur, Georgia – a jug mystery.

New in the Archives: DeKalb Realtors Multi-List Service

Black Owned Funeral Homes In DeKalb County

Farmers Markets of Atlanta and Decatur

Ruth Lockhart Bean and Chamblee’s Musicland

Stories from the Archives Stacks

Black Cemeteries: Preserving History, Part II

Ed Anderson

James L. Brown

New in the archives! We've picked up a collection of scrapbooks from Henderson Mill Elementary School. They range from 1965, when the school first opened, up through the mid-1980s. They are chock-full of historic photos and information about the staff and the school itself. Created by the Henderson Mill Elementary PTA groups of the day. Follow the link to make an appointment to come see them in person! These photos come from the 1965 scrapbook. https://dekalbhistory.org/dekalb-county-archives-research/contact-dhc-archives/

Day 2 of From the Vault: Spooky Stories of DeKalb 👻 Spiritualism: Our History with Otherworldly Communication In the 1880s, another method used to communicate with the dead was discovered: the talking board. This method of communication circulated amongst spiritualists across Ohio, but it wasn’t until 1890 that it became known as the Ouija board and was marketed to the masses. No one knows where the concept for the game came from, but the original talking boards were fashioned out of paper and a glass object serving as the planchette (from the French for “little plank”). It’s said that the board actually named itself. When the makers were asking the board what its name should be, it spelled out “ouija” and then “Good luck.” Click the link in bio to read full story.

It’s almost Halloween! 🎃 Over the next few days, we’ll be revisiting some of our favorite Spooky Stories of DeKalb from the past few years! Get ready for history, mystery, and some Halloween chills! Click the link in the bio for our first story: Stiffs For Science In 1886, Charles Murphy Candler introduced to the legislature a bill providing “stiffs for science” so medical colleges would have a legitimate way to acquire cadavers without grave robbing. The bill would also make the business of body-snatching a felony. Doctors who procured cadavers legally would have them buried at public expense, but the colleges would have to embalm each body and keep it for 90 days to be delivered to any relative or friend if claimed. 📸Pallbearers at a funeral c. 1920. Photo courtesy of A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home.

Tonight! ⚾ DeKalb History Center 6:30 PM $5/$10 Members/Non Member Run the Bases with James “Red” Moore (Former Atlanta Black Crackers) and Gregory White (Negro League Historian) Join the conversation with Gregory White (DeKalb County Resident) who documented the life of James “Red” Moore, former Atlanta Black Cracker from 1992-2016. His story is more than baseball-it is a legacy of excellence, perseverance and talent rising beyond limited opportunity.

New in the archives! This collection from the Lithonia Woman's Club (the building was recently sold) features administrative files, photos, yearbooks (starting in 1927!), correspondence, and more! Contact the archives today to make an appointment. https://dekalbhistory.org/dekalb-county-archives-research/contact-dhc-archives/

Our latest interviewee from Lynwood Park was Ms. Jacquelyn Hampton. Born in Atlanta in 1946, her family moved to Deacon Lane in Chamblee when she was nine years old. Since DeKalb County schools were still segregated, Jacquelyn and other Black children were bused to the Lynwood Park School. Other than a few community jobs, General Motors was the primary employer for people who moved to the area. Entertainment options were also so limited that Jacquelyn’s mother created a teen hangout space from their home. She was a busy student at Lynwood Park School, actively participating in cheerleading and other sports. She graduated from Lynwood Park School in 1964 as the valedictorian. After graduating, she studied at the College of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Arkansas. From there, she was recruited by the Presbyterian Church to become part of the youth council as a representative at the World Council of Churches in Uppsala, Sweden. Following college, she married and moved to Kansas City, where she transitioned from teaching into social work. She earned her master’s degree from the University of Kansas. In her time spent living in Kansas, she worked on a 13-year Black Adoption Project and, for 16 years, researched developmental disabilities. These roles would parlay her into a position working for the government of Wyandotte County in housing and urban development. After living in Kansas for several decades, she returned to Atlanta in 2014. Today, she’s enjoying her retirement surrounded by her children and grandchildren. If you or someone you know is interested in doing an oral history interview, please let us know! 😊✨

We recently interviewed another former Lynwood Park resident, Mr. Melvin Pender, Jr. He was born in 1937 in Atlanta and spent the early years of his life living in poverty. When he was a baby, his family moved to Chicago, where his parents worked in the defense plants during World War II. Afterwards, his father was drafted into the Navy and his family returned to Dalton, Georgia, in 1942, where they lived in a humble home. Pender pointed out that although humble, they had running water. During his youth, he questioned the segregated society he lived in. “I started seeing things, and I would say, ' Why?” His mother couldn’t answer the question, but she instilled in him the belief that he needed an education, and that one day things would change. When the family moved to Lynwood Park in 1950, their home was on House Road, which is known today as Osbourne Road. His mother was part of a group (Twelve Ladies Sewing Club) that raised money to buy the land to build the Lynwood Park School. He described the school as a long concrete building, with a stove, muddy land, and a toilet that was 50 meters away from the building. The Lynwood Park School community was nurturing and encouraged the students to pursue their education. After Melvin got married at age 16, he enlisted in the United States Army (at 17). This set him on a 21-year military career, during which he rose in rank from a soldier to an infantry lieutenant in the Officer Candidate School. In the 1960s, Pender was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. While playing football there, he discovered that he was the fastest runner on the team. At 27 years old, he placed sixth in the 100-meter dash at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo. Four years later, he won a gold medal in the 4x100-meter relay at the Mexico City Olympics in 1968. If you or someone you know is interested in an oral history interview, reach out to us! We’d love to hear from you!

Stop in for a local history break during the Decatur Book Festival! We have four exhibits currently on display - all free to explore. 😎 Find us in the Historic DeKalb Courthouse right in the middle of downtown Decatur. Museum Hours for Saturday, October 3rd - 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Together- A Community Celebration of Our Shared History Now Open! What does it mean to be a DeKalb Countian? As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, we chose to zoom in and focus on the individual stories within our own county. Museum Hours: Free to Visit! M-F 10:00-4:00 PM Saturday 10:00-2:00 PM

We hope to see you at one of these upcoming October programs! 🎃 Decatur Architecture Walking Tour, Theme: Historical/Revival Styles Tuesday, October 6 at 5:00 pm This is a ticketed tour. (Last architecture tour of the year!) Hops at the History Center: Notorious Georgia with Neely Young Thursday, October 8 at 6:30 pm This is a ticketed program. Workshop: Discovering and Preserving Family History Saturday, October 10 at 10:00 am This is a ticketed workshop. Lunch and Learn: Cemeteries of Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area Wednesday, October 14 at 12:00 pm Free to attend, bring your lunch! Hops at the History Center: Negro National League with Greg White Tuesday, October 27 at 6:30 pm This is a ticketed program. Find more info on these programs by tapping the link in our bio.

Tomorrow, 6:30 PM ! Decatur in the Modern Era: History & Architecture Tour Walking Tour with Gene Kansas | Commercial Real Estate and DeKalb History Center Join Helen McGaughy and Marissa Howard for a walk through a sleek chapter of Decatur’s architectural history. The tour begins at The Blair Building, Decatur’s bold pink 1939 Streamline Moderne landmark, and winds through Downtown Decatur to the Fairview Building and the Sharian Building — all examples of the clean lines, curved corners, and forward-looking design that defined the late 1930s and early 1940s. Along the way, the group will step inside select buildings for a closer look at preserved details and interior spaces, and explore how these structures fit into Decatur’s broader architectural story. Check link in bio to register and for more details.

We hope to see you at one of these upcoming programs! SWAPtember All month long! Swap savings at some of your favorite Atlanta museums and destinations, including the DeKalb History Center. Decatur Architecture Walking Tour, Theme: Post Modern Decatur: 1970s-2000s Tuesday, September 8 at 6:00 pm This is a ticketed tour. Lunch & Learn: On the Chitlin Circuit Wednesday, September 9 at 12:00 pm Free to attend, bring your lunch! Walking Tour: Decatur in the Modern Era, Architecture & History Friday, September 11 at 6:30 pm This is a ticketed tour. Lunch & Learn: Carver Hills Community in Doraville Tuesday, September 15 at 12:00 pm Free to attend, bring your lunch! New Exhibit Opening: Together, A Community Celebration of Our Shared History Saturday, September 26 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, and during regular museum hours Free admission (but donations appreciated!)

Thank you to everyone who attended or contributed to the Kick Up Your Boots! 🤠 This is one of the largest fundraisers that we hold every year and thanks to you all, we raised around $15,000! This money will go straight into operations here at the DeKalb History Center and we are incredibly grateful for the generosity of individuals, businesses, and volunteers who continue to support us not only during these events, but also year-round. Enjoy these photos by Dean Hesse. Thank you vendors who made it all possible! Decor: PeachyKeen MC and DJ: Amp’t Entertainment Photobooth: Ballroom Blitz Photography: Dean Hesse Drapery: PeachyKeen Uplight: Ballroom Blitz Alcohol: Moe’s & Joe’s Tavern Caterers Avalon Catering Bold Catering and Design Gotta Have It Party Execs Sun in My Belly Phenomenal Foods By Chef Holly Simply Sated The Ramspeck

The Silent Auction is Live! 🤠 Can't make the party on Saturday? You can still support the DeKalb History Center by bidding on wonderful items from our community. Check out the full list of items, link in bio. 🔗

Today in DeKalb Historical Society/DeKalb History Center history - the building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, August 26, 1971. Document from the Peggy Hill Simms collection, Decatur Women's Club Documents.

Don't have any plans for Saturday night? Head on down to the Historic DeKalb Courthouse for a party featuring mouthwatering food from seven of our preferred caterers, an open bar with themed cocktails, and a chance to bid and win an array of goodies from local businesses! We'll be holding a Best Dressed contest so saddle up for some friendly competition. Oh, and this year's theme is Glitzy Western. Think jeans and leather, cowboy boots and hats, rhinestones and fringe. The party starts at 6:30pm - we'll see you there! 🤠 Get your tickets here: https://event.gives/dhckickboots Photo caption: The Annual Silent Auction party from the past few years (2025, 2024, 2023)

We are one week away to our fundraiser, Kick Up Your Boots! We have many people to thank for providing silent auction packages or donations! Thank you @moesandjoesatl for providing the beer and wine. 🍷🍺, @mysteryvalleygolfcourse for donating a golf package, and @thecornercupcoffee for donating a gift card! You still have a chance to wrangle your tickets! Ticket link in bio above!

We want to thank @totalwine for donating an incredible package to our upcoming Silent Auction, Kick Up Your Boots! Treat your friends, family, and fellow wine lovers to a private wine class for up to 20 people in Total Wine's classroom. 🍷 You can bid on this and more on August 29th!

Two Weeks Away! 🤠Kick Up Your Boots for History This year’s party will feature mouthwatering food from seven of our preferred caterers, an open bar with themed cocktails, and of course your chance to bid and win an array of goodies from local businesses. We will be holding a Best Dressed contest, so bring your glitziest western garb and saddle up for some friendly competition. The event will be held Saturday, August 29th at 6:30 pm. Tickets Here: https://event.gives/dhckic.../Kick_Up_Your_Boots_for_History

Only one week left to view Home: The United Methodist Children’s Home! ‼️ The exhibit explores the United Methodist Children’s Home (UMCH) through historic and contemporary photographs and first hand oral histories from past residents, employees, and volunteers. This fascinating history was documented through interviews and photography by Beate Sass with interview assistance from Moira Bucciarelli. Standing as a beacon of hope for children and families for 152 years, the United Methodist Children’s Home (UMCH) served as a place countless people called Home. Founded in 1871 in Norcross, Georgia, the Children’s Home was created to give children abandoned in the aftermath of the Civil War a place to be cared for. In 1877, the Home moved to Decatur and remained there until 2017. Exhibit hours are Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm, and Saturdays 10am - 2pm. Captions Image 1 and 2: Photographs by Dean Hesse Image 3: Photograph by Beate Sass

We are asking current, and former residents of DeKalb County to share their fondest memories with us via photographs. The memories you share can be from any location and may be included in our upcoming exhibit, Together. About Together What does it mean to be a DeKalb Countian? As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, we chose to zoom in and focus on the individual stories within our own county. Our distinct narratives weave together to make DeKalb County unique, but we also see the similarities to other communities across the United States. In times of uncertainty – as well as times of ease – a connection with one’s community is invaluable. Our new exhibit, Together, will highlight DeKalb County citizens through photographs, oral histories, an all-ages interactive activity, and artifacts from our collection and local residents. Find out how you can be part of the exhibit by tapping the link in our bio. 😎

Grab your cowboy hats and boots for an evening of delicious food, dancing, and a rootin’ tootin’ good time. 🤠 This year’s party will feature mouthwatering food from seven of our preferred caterers, an open bar with themed cocktails, and of course your chance to bid and win an array of goodies from local businesses. We will be holding a Best Dressed contest, so bring your glitziest western garb and saddle up for some friendly competition. The event will be held Saturday, August 29th at 6:30 pm. Ticket Link In Bio 🔗

Tonight till 7! Special museum hours along with our Summer Book Sale with Destination Books. 🥂 On the square? Drop by and say hello! 🌞

Summer Book Sale with Destination Books happening today (12-4) and tomorrow (12-7) 📚🥂 More programs in our link in bio 🔗.

We hope to see you at one of these upcoming programs! 😎 Summer Book Sale and Happy Hour with Destination Books Wednesday, August 5 from 12:00 - 4:00 pm Thursday, August 6 from 12:00 - 7:00 pm Free to attend! Books will be available for purchase with prices varying from $1 - $100. Hops at the History Center: Part II, Smith-Benning House Preservation with Robert Craig Thursday, August 13 at 6:30 pm Free to attend! Drink tickets available for purchase. Decatur Architecture Walking Tour, Theme: Historical/Revival Styles Tuesday, August 18 at 7:00 pm This is a ticketed tour. Kick Up Your Boots for History, Annual Silent Auction Saturday, August 29 at 6:30 pm This is a special ticketed event. Find more info in the link in our bio!

Ever feel like your thoughts don’t fit neatly into words alone? Welcome to The Writing Table—a guided journaling experience where writing meets creativity. This isn’t just about putting pen to paper. It’s about exploring your thoughts through words, textures, scraps, and story, all in a relaxed, welcoming space. No pressure. No perfection. No “right way” to do it. Join the workshop on Wednesday, July 29th from 6-8pm! Ticket price includes all supplies and beverages. Get your tickets in the link in our bio. 🖊️

Grab your cowboy hats and boots for an evening of delicious food, dancing, and a rootin’ tootin’ good time. 🤠 This year’s party will feature mouthwatering food from seven of our preferred caterers, an open bar with themed cocktails, and of course your chance to bid and win an array of goodies from local businesses. We will be holding a Best Dressed contest, so bring your glitziest western garb and saddle up for some friendly competition. We are currently accepting silent auction donations - please consider donating! More info here: https://dekalbhistory.org/programs/kick-up-your-boots-for-history-and-silent-auction/ The event will be held Saturday, August 29th at 6:30 pm.

We’re thrilled to introduce you to our latest interviewee, Mr. James L. Brown, as part of our work to collect oral histories. Born in 1946, the second oldest of eight children, Mr. Brown shared insights into his upbringing within Lynwood Park and how it shaped the rest of his life. He grew up in poverty with parents James R. Brown, a truck driver for a construction company, and Nancy Church-Brown, a domestic worker. Mr. Brown’s family moved into a duplex in Lynwood Park in 1953; many neighbors lived in apartments. He attended the Lynwood Park School from 1953 to 1964, graduating with honors. Following his high school graduation, he immediately joined the workforce as a janitor at a local grocery store in Chamblee. From there, he worked his way up, becoming a head clerk, and participated in a management training program. In 1967, he took on a second job at the Federal Reserve Bank as a night shift custodian. The next year, he was chosen to train in computer operations and data processing. By 1969, he was promoted to computer room supervisor. He then obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration in 1974 at Georgia State University. In 1976, he became the first African American to be promoted to the Assistant Vice President of the Federal Reserve System. At the age of 58, Mr. Brown retired from the Federal Reserve System to pursue a career in the ministry. He would work in this field for 15 years as a church pastor and the Director of Retirement Planning for the National Church of God until 2020. Today, he is happily retired, spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. If you or someone you know is interested in sharing their story about Lynwood Park or other places in DeKalb, we’d be thrilled to hear from you. Reach out to us!

Last week's tour got rained out, so we have a make up day today! ✨Curious about Decatur's Mid-Century architecture? We have some tickets available for tonight's Architecture Tour. 7:00 PM at the DeKalb History Center / Historic DeKalb Courthouse Tour is about 1 mile, lasts 75-90 minutes. Tickets: https://dekalbhistory.org/programs/decatur-architecture-walking-tour-2026

We are asking current, and former residents of DeKalb County to share their fondest memories with us via photographs. The memories you share can be from any location and may be included in our upcoming exhibit, Together. About Together What does it mean to be a DeKalb Countian? As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, we chose to zoom in and focus on the individual stories within our own county. Our distinct narratives weave together to make DeKalb County unique, but we also see the similarities to other communities across the United States. In times of uncertainty – as well as times of ease – a connection with one’s community is invaluable. Our new exhibit, Together, will highlight DeKalb County citizens through photographs, oral histories, an all-ages interactive activity, and artifacts from our collection. Find out how you can be part of the exhibit by tapping the link in our bio. 📸

Curious about Decatur's Mid-Century architecture? We have some tickets available for tonight's architecture tour. 7:00 PM at the DeKalb History Center / Historic DeKalb Courthouse Tour is about 1 mile, lasts 75-90 minutes. Ticket link in bio.

During the Bicentennial year of 1976, DeKalb County Parks and Recreation, DeKalb Federal Savings and Loan, and DeKalb Chamber of Commerce presented a play called "A Cry of Eagles", portraying the story of Baron DeKalb and the American Revolution. These pages are taken from a program created that year. Contact the archives to come see it in person, along with other Bicentennial papers. https://dekalbhistory.org/dekalb-county-archives-research/contact-dhc-archives/

Grab your cowboy hats and boots for an evening of delicious food, dancing, and a rootin’ tootin’ good time. 🤠 This year’s party will feature mouthwatering food from seven of our preferred caterers, an open bar with themed cocktails, and of course your chance to bid and win an array of goodies from local businesses. We will be holding a Best Dressed contest, so bring your glitziest western garb and saddle up for some friendly competition. We are currently accepting silent auction donations - please consider donating! More info in the link in bio. The event will be held Saturday, August 29th at 6:30 pm. Tickets coming soon!

Our exhibit, Home: The United Methodist Children’s Home, will be closing Monday, August 24th. The last day to view it will be Saturday, August 22nd. Be sure to check it out before it's gone! The exhibit explores the United Methodist Children’s Home (UMCH) through historic and contemporary photographs and first hand oral histories from past residents, employees, and volunteers. This fascinating history was documented through interviews and photography by Beate Sass with interview assistance from Moira Bucciarelli. Standing as a beacon of hope for children and families for 152 years, the United Methodist Children’s Home (UMCH) served as a place countless people called Home. Founded in 1871 in Norcross, Georgia, the Children’s Home was created to give children abandoned in the aftermath of the Civil War a place to be cared for. In 1877, the Home moved to Decatur and remained there until 2017. Exhibit hours are Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm, and Saturdays 10am - 2pm.

Happy Independence Day, via the Bicentennial, 1976! 🎆🎉 From our collection- A Bicentennial Georgia license plate; photo of the Bicentennial Wagon Train from the Decatur-DeKalb News newspaper.

It might be hot outside, but it's cool inside! ☀️❄️ If you're in Decatur for WatchFest, stop by and say hello! Our exhibits are FREE and open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We'd love to see you!

We hope to see you at one of these upcoming programs! Decatur Architecture Walking Tour: Decatur Mid-Century Thursday, July 16 at 7:00 pm This is a ticketed tour. Limited spots available. Show & Tell Happy Hour Wednesday, July 22 at 6:30 pm Free to attend! Decatur Architecture Walking Tour: Historical/Revival Styles Tuesday, July 28 at 7:00 pm This is a ticketed tour. Limited spots available. Creative Writing Workshop: Sit, Sip, and Write Wednesday, July 29 at 6:00 pm This is a ticketed workshop. Limited seats available. Find more info in the link in our bio!

Yes, This Was Once the Original BabyLand General Clinic. What got us really excited about this building was that it was once the Cabbage Patch Kid’s BabyLand General Clinic from 1981-1985. But also, the modest modernist architecture of 402 E. Howard (1959). Modernist architecture can be flashy and dramatic with skyscrapers or landmark buildings, but more often than not, it's these smaller commercial structures where we see the first wave of modernism reach cities and towns across America. During the mid-twentieth century, buildings were evolving from utilitarian spaces into “Machines for Selling,” the phrase popularized by the 1946 published work “Machines for Selling: the Modern Store Designs by Kawneer.” Aluminum and steel framing systems allowed for large plate-glass storefront windows, blurring the line between sidewalk and store interior. Opaque-backed window displays disappeared, removing visual barriers so passersby had a wide view into the store. Windows could also be asymmetrical and/or angled to reduce glare while creating visual interest that drew shoppers into the store. Brick and stone facades provided texture and contrast against the sloped metal framing. The results were striking, a new way of design for the consumer. We see all of these characteristics in this 1959 commercial building at 204 East Howard in Decatur. It was Lewis Feed Store from 1959-1967, Spencer Tires and Sales 1970-1981, and finally BabyLand General Clinic from 1981-1985.

We have an extensive collection of archival material from Rock Chapel United Methodist Church. Several years ago, the DHC published a blog on CHIPS, a monthly newsletter produced by the Rock Chapel community for local soldiers serving overseas. While CHIPS was a newsletter, photographs in the Rock Chapel United Methodist Church scrapbook document the day-to-day happenings during the same time period. Nearly 40 members of Rock Chapel community served in the military during the war, and their absence was deeply felt throughout the community. The author of CHIPS captured that feeling poignantly: "Rock Chapel is still the same old place... count on that. There's a big empty space over on the mountain where the rock has been blasted out. And there's a big empty space in our lives where you all used to be, too." (Shown in front) WAC Corporal Margaret Pearce, née Mitchell. Margaret was born in the Rock Chapel Community, the oldest of five girls. When World War II broke out, since there were no boys in her family, Margaret decided to serve, joining the WACS, the Women's Army Corps. She was stationed at Turner Field, Albany and rose to ranks of Corporal. CHIPS, the community magazine applauded her other achievement of becoming a good bowler while at Turner Air Field.

"Architecture is magical—it's the physical, living record of the evolution of time, and I learn something new every time I walk amongst it, even those buildings I've passed and seen countless times before. Another awesome Decatur architecture tour with DeKalb History Center and the ever-knowledgeable Marissa Glade Howard yesterday evening! Focusing on Modern Decatur, we visited downtown buildings constructed between 1935 and 1972." Thank you, @scherryfarmer, for these incredible photos and thoughtful review of our Mid-Century Decatur Architecture Tour last week. The next Architecture Tour is July 16th! 🔗Link In Bio

Sun's out and shining! 🌞 The museum is open today until 4:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM–2:00 PM.

Meet Ed Anderson, a Clarkston resident who, with grit, has navigated science and social justice. Anderson shared his life story shaped by the political atmosphere of his youth and his drive to provide for his family. Born in 1954 and raised in the “Main Line” suburbs of Philadelphia, Ed grew up in a working-class household amidst an affluent community. His political consciousness was forged early, as he watched the Civil Rights Movement unfold on TV. He later became a radical student leader at his predominantly white high school and even the student government president; a victory so poignant against the status quo that the school administration famously disbanded the student government in response. Facing the pressure of student loans after college at Temple University, Ed pivoted to the U.S. Air Force, where he chose meteorology. This decision launched him into a high-risk career as a “Typhoon Chaser” with the 54th Weather Reconnaissance Squadron in Guam, where he flew through the eyes of massive storms to gather life-saving data. After transitioning to civilian life, Ed moved to Atlanta, where he broke barriers in broadcasting (1989 - 1991). He worked behind the scenes at the Weather Channel and CNN, and on air at WXIA (11 Alive). Despite the glamour often associated with TV, Ed spoke candidly about the industry’s harsh realities, noting he once made more money doing odd jobs than working full-time in news. Now a retired DeKalb County science teacher (2003 - 2021), Ed offers powerful advice to the next generation of Black students: “Learn how to walk both sides of the street.” He emphasized the importance of versatility, clear communication, and maintaining one’s identity while navigating spaces that weren’t originally built for them. Ed’s story is a testament to the fact that while the path isn’t always linear, resilience and a “no shame in my game” work ethic can lead to the mountaintop.

Things are looking very different around here… but rest assured your favorite local history spot is still here! Despite continuing construction, we are still open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm. Free admission! 😎

Over the course of spring and summer, we'll be featuring items from our archives related to the 1976 Bicentennial. We're calling this series "What Was In the News?" From the DeKalb New Era newspaper, February and June, 1976. In these 2 editions, restaurants and local businesses were highlighted. Which one(s) of these did YOU go to? Tell us in the comments. 🍕🌭

Today, we are honored to share the inspiring journey of Deborah A. Jackson, a trailblazer whose life story is a master class in perseverance and community leadership. Born in 1952, in Savannah, GA, Deborah spent the first six weeks of her life in the South before moving to Jersey City, New Jersey. Growing up in a compact, supportive neighborhood, she first navigated the complexities of race in third grade, an experience that later fueled her passion for justice. A standout student, she served as high school valedictorian and student council president before joining the second-ever class of women admitted to Princeton University. Deborah’s career was sparked by a firsthand encounter with systemic injustice during a summer break, leading her to pursue a law degree at Rutgers. Whether fighting for civil rights in rural Mississippi or legal equity in New York, she has always used the law to challenge the status quo. Since moving to DeKalb County in 2000, Deborah has left an indelible mark on the City of Lithonia. As mayor (2012-2020), she transformed community plans into reality, moving them “off the shelf” and into the streets. She oversaw the creation of the new Municipal Complex and spearheaded 75 affordable housing units at Lithonia Plaza. She remains a fierce advocate for the historic Bruce Street community and the preservation of the public school for Black children in the county. “I’m proud to be part of a group of Black women willing to step forward,” she says, reflecting on her lineage of leadership in this “place of stone.” Thank you Deborah, for helping us document the history of Lithonia. If you or someone you know is interested in an oral history interview, please let us know! We’d be delighted to talk to you.

Tonight at 6:00 pm! Author J.D. Porter discusses his new book, The Muleskinner & the King. Grab your tickets in the link in bio.

Who else spent their summers in the library? 📚 Discover South DeKalb Slide Collection, ca 1979.

We recently interviewed retired Brigadier General Dix and his wife, Mrs. Cynthia Dix to explore their lives during integration, their professional achievements, and the resilience fostered by their communities. Cynthia Dix was born in Jacksonville, FL, in 1959. She described a community where neighbors functioned as an extended family. Richard Dix, born in Atlanta in 1965, grew up in the Lynwood Park community of Brookhaven, North DeKalb. He characterized it as a “village” demarcated by racial boundaries, and noted that while the community was warm and protective, the world beyond its edges was often hostile. He recounted the sting of integration in the public school system, where he faced disparaging comments from teachers and peers alike. Both were driven by a strong work ethic modeled by their parents. Cynthia earned a BSN from Florida State University and embarked on a 30-year career in critical care. Richard graduated from Columbia High School, where he excelled in athletics and academics, becoming the first African American soccer-style kicker in DeKalb County. He earned a scholarship to South Carolina State University, where he became the school’s first academic All-American and graduated as a second lieutenant through the Army's ROTC program The couple met in Atlanta in 1996 through mutual friends. Richard described a sudden spiritual connection, knowing immediately that Cynthia was “the one.” They married six months later, beginning a 28-year partnership. General Dix’s military career spanned 30 years, during which he commanded various personnel and served six combat deployments. He attributes his rise to the rank of Brigadier General to the foundation laid in Lynwood Park and the unwavering support of Cynthia, who traveled with him through seven years in Europe and various domestic assignments. Their story serves as a testament to the power of community, faith, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.

Enjoying the beautiful weather on Decatur Square? 🌼Swing by and visit our museum – we're open until 2 PM today!

Lithonia’s municipal water system dates back to 1916, and this cute granite building on Ruth Street is the last surviving remnant of the original system. You can even spot it on the 1924 Sanborn Map.

Over the course of the spring and summer, we'll be featuring items from our archives related to the 1976 Bicentennial. We're calling this series "What Was In the News?" From the DeKalb New Era newspaper, January 1976. From movies to politics, the DeKalb newspapers covered it all! Contact the archives to make an appointment to view the DeKalb newspapers books.

We join the community in mourning the passing of renowned metro-area architect Robert L. Brown, Jr. Designated a “Citizen Architect” by the AIA, Brown served as the first African American Board President of the DeKalb History Center in 1996. He was an active board member and then a trustee for a decade before he served on the boards of statewide organizations including the Georgia Historical Society, the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation, and many more. In addition to his vast community service his enduring architectural legacy includes statewide and regional projects from Morehouse College to Birmingham Civil Rights Institute in Alabama. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family during this challenging time.

The Decatur Architecture Tour is back this year with a twist! Attendees will see a variety of building styles, from classical to modern, spanning both commercial and residential architecture. Each tour highlights distinct architectural themes and topics. Check upcoming dates for specific tour themes and details. Tour led by Marissa Howard, Membership and Programs Coordinator, DeKalb History Center May 6, 6:00 pm – Historical and Revival Architecture May 12, 6:00 pm – Decatur Square (0.4 miles, leisure pace, accessible to benches) May 27, 7:00 pm – Residential June 2, 7:00 pm – Mid Century Decatur Meeting Location DeKalb History Center Tickets in bio! 🎟️

This month in DeKalb history! We'll be featuring items from our archives related to the 1976 Bicentennial this spring and summer. We're calling this series "What Was In the News?" From the DeKalb New Era newspaper, April 1976. Mathis Dairy, still going strong in 1976. Did YOU go to Mathis Dairy on a school field trip? Tell us about it in the comments. 🐄🐂🐃🐮

On Tuesday April 28 at noon, authors Jeff Dingler and Brigette Jones will be here to discuss their new book, Images of America: Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area. Free to attend, bring your lunch! 🍔

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