Southern Spring Bed Company
300 Martin Luther King, Jr., Dr., Atlanta, GA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2007.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Georgia was the last of the original 13 colonies to be established. It was founded in 1732, over 100 years after the first English settlement in Virginia.
In 1853, Fulton County was created from portions of DeKalb, Cobb, and Campbell counties. Its formation was a result of Atlanta's rapid growth as a railroad hub, as well as its status as the capital of Georgia. The county was named after Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat.
During the Civil War, Fulton County played a significant role as a major supply and transportation center for the Confederacy. Atlanta, the county seat, was a key target for Union troops. In 1864, General William T. Sherman led his famous March to the Sea, devastating Atlanta and much of Fulton County.
After the war, Fulton County experienced a period of rebuilding and growth. The city of Atlanta became a prominent center for commerce and industry in the South. With the expansion of railroads and the establishment of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Fulton County became a major transportation hub and economic powerhouse.
Today, Fulton County is the most populous county in Georgia, with a vibrant cultural scene, diverse communities, and a thriving economy. It is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, prestigious universities, and world-class sporting events. Fulton County continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its residents, while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
Fulton County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Fulton County, Georgia.
- 1845: Fulton County is created on December 20th, out of the western half of DeKalb County.
- 1853: Atlanta becomes the county seat after winning a county seat war against neighboring town, Marietta.
- 1864: During the Civil War, Atlanta is captured by Union forces led by General William T. Sherman.
- 1871: The first horse-drawn streetcar line begins operating in Atlanta.
- 1907: Atlanta's first professional baseball team, the Atlanta Crackers, is founded.
- 1956: Civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. leads the Montgomery Bus Boycott, sparking a nationwide movement for equality.
- 1973: The iconic Atlanta stadium, later known as the Fulton County Stadium, is completed.
- 1996: Atlanta hosts the Summer Olympics, showcasing the city's growth and development.
- 2000: The Georgia Dome, a multi-purpose sports and convention center, opens in Atlanta.
- 2017: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, opens its doors.