Marietta

Marietta, Georgia, a city with a distinct identity, is located approximately 15 miles northwest of Atlanta. It serves as the county seat of Cobb County and spans about 23 square miles, with a population of over 60,000 residents. Beyond the city limits, an additional 300,000 individuals use a Marietta mailing address, particularly in nearby East Cobb.

The city offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, providing a balance of small-town atmosphere with suburban conveniences. Marietta is recognized for its historic downtown, active civic presence, and local character. It's a place where history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking local arts and culture can find something to enjoy.

From Cherokee Lands to a Railroad Hub

Marietta's origins trace back to the Cherokee Territory in the 1830s, with early settlements reported near the Cherokee town of Kennesaw before 1824. In 1832, Georgia formed ten counties from former Cherokee land, with Cobb County named after Thomas Willis Cobb, a U.S. representative, senator, and Supreme Court judge. The town of Marietta itself was reportedly named in memory of Cobb's wife, Mary Moore, who had passed away before her husband.

Surveyor James Anderson laid out the original town plat in 1833, and within a year, nearly 100 people had settled there. The Georgia legislature officially recognized Marietta as a village on December 19, 1834. The construction of the state-owned Western and Atlantic Railroad (W&A) significantly accelerated the community's development, with regular runs from Marthasville (later Atlanta) to Marietta beginning in 1845. By 1850, Marietta was thriving due to the railroad's operation. John Glover, a South Carolina rice planter who moved to Marietta, became the first mayor when the city incorporated in 1852. During the 1850s, the city experienced three fires that destroyed much of its infrastructure.

Civil War and Reconstruction

Marietta played a significant role in the American Civil War. On July 3, 1864, General William T. Sherman's Union forces occupied Marietta after the Battle of Kennesaw Mountain. When Union troops departed in November 1864 for the March to the Sea, they set fire to buildings around the square, sparing only the Masonic Hall. Approximately twenty residences, Glover's tannery, and the Georgia Military Institute were destroyed. After the war, two military cemeteries were established in Marietta. Henry Greene Cole, a prominent citizen, offered land for a burial ground for both Union and Confederate soldiers, but the idea was rejected by the townspeople. The federal government then converted Cole's property into the Marietta National Cemetery for Union casualties, while Confederate soldiers were interred in a separate cemetery.

Growth and Modernity

Marietta's postwar history mirrored that of Georgia, with a prosperous business and professional class emerging and constructing fine homes throughout the downtown area, many of which still stand today. Towards the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, Marietta saw the establishment of cotton, flour, paper, and marble mills, along with chair factories and machineworks. Today, Marietta remains a dynamic city, recognized for its five National Register Historic Districts and its blend of historical preservation with modern living.

Marietta Square forms the core of the city, a central gathering place for community events, shopping, and dining. Here, you'll find beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and diverse eateries. The Square also hosts the Marietta Square Farmers Market, offering local produce and artisanal goods. Glover Park, located within the Square, is a popular spot for outdoor concerts, festivals, and family activities, complete with a fountain and a playground.

Just off the Square, the Marietta Museum of History, housed in the historic Kennesaw House, provides a detailed look into the city's past, from its founding to its role in the Civil War. The Gone With the Wind Museum at historic Brumby Hall, a pre-Civil War building from 1851, displays memorabilia from the iconic novel and film. For a unique landmark, visit The Big Chicken, a 56-foot-tall steel chicken housing a KFC restaurant, an unmistakable local icon since 1963. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, a significant Civil War site with trails for hiking and biking. The city also maintains numerous parks and green spaces for outdoor enjoyment, including the Silver Comet Trail for biking and and walking.

The most pleasant times to visit Marietta for warm-weather activities are from early May to mid-June and from late August to mid-October. During these periods, temperatures are mild, and humidity is lower. May offers warmer days with highs around 81°F and lows near 59°F, ideal for outdoor dining and strolls. September brings some relief from summer heat, with highs around 84°F and lows near 63°F. October is considered one of Marietta's best weather months, with highs around 75°F and lows near 52°F, offering crisp air and fall foliage. The city hosts various annual festivals throughout the year, including May-Retta Daze in May and Art in the Park over Labor Day weekend.

Marietta offers a variety of dining options, from upscale establishments like Mac's Chophouse and Seed Kitchen & Bar to casual eateries and diverse international cuisines found at the Marietta Square Market. Parking in downtown Marietta includes both free and paid options. There are three parking decks, two owned by Cobb County and one by the City of Marietta, offering over 1,500 spaces. On-street parking is also available, often with a two-hour maximum. The City Hall parking deck provides free parking with validation for city business and is free to the public on weekends and weekday evenings. Cobb County parking decks offer the first 30 minutes free, with increasing rates for longer stays. An interactive map is available to help locate parking spots around Marietta Square. For longer stays, monthly parking options are available, with prices varying based on location and amenities.