DeKalb History Center: Old Courthouse On The Square in Atlanta’s Historic Core
A Landmark Museum Preserving DeKalb County’s Story
The DeKalb History Center: Old Courthouse On The Square is a local history museum and research hub serving metro Atlanta residents, educators, and visitors interested in the region’s past. Housed in a restored historic courthouse, this Arts & Entertainment destination combines curated exhibits, archival collections, and public programs that illuminate how DeKalb County and greater Atlanta have evolved over time.
As part of the broader Museums community, the center focuses on everyday stories—commerce, neighborhoods, transportation, civil rights, and cultural life—making local history accessible and relevant for modern audiences.
What Visitors Experience Inside the Old Courthouse
Exhibits at the DeKalb History Center blend artifacts, photographs, and interactive elements to help guests quickly grasp key moments in DeKalb’s development. Rotating displays highlight topics such as:
- Growth of Atlanta’s eastern communities
- Architectural heritage and courthouse history
- Social change, including education and civic life
Families, students, and casual museum-goers will find concise wall text, visual timelines, and object labels designed for easy, self-guided visits. Educators can align field trips with Georgia social studies standards, using the museum’s galleries as a classroom extension.
Research, Archives, and Local Resources
Beyond exhibits, the Old Courthouse On The Square supports deeper research. The center maintains:
- Historic photographs and maps
- Local government documents and records
- Oral histories and family files
Genealogists, homeowners, planners, and preservation professionals use these resources to document property histories, trace family roots, or inform restoration projects. Visitors are encouraged to check the center’s online portals for research guidelines, digital collections, and appointment details.
Events, Programs, and Community Connections
The DeKalb History Center: Old Courthouse On The Square also functions as a civic gathering place. Its event spaces host history lectures, walking tour launches, panel discussions, and partner programs with other Arts & Entertainment organizations.
Select rooms in the historic courthouse are available for private rentals such as meetings or community celebrations, offering a period-style backdrop that keeps local history at the center of contemporary life.
Quick Reference: What the Center Offers
| Focus Area | What You’ll Find |
|---|---|
| Museum Exhibits | Local history displays, courthouse and community storytelling |
| Education | School programs, tours, teacher-friendly content |
| Research | Archives, photos, maps, and local history reference support |
| Community Events | Talks, programs, and collaborations with cultural institutions |
| Venue Use | Historic spaces suitable for select private and civic events |
By combining museum-quality exhibits, accessible research tools, and active public programming, the DeKalb History Center: Old Courthouse On The Square stands out within Atlanta’s Museums scene as a key entry point into DeKalb County’s shared story and its place in the region’s wider Arts & Entertainment landscape.
