Stockbridge, GA is known as the “City of Friendly Neighbors“, and that inviting atmosphere has drawn people to this small city in Southern Georgia, nestled between Atlanta and Macon. With several historical and fascinating sites, Stockbridge is famous for its celebration of all things southern and historical.
Home to Tanger Outlets and the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Stockbridge is also renowned for its delicious Southern cuisine, charming downtown area, and the unique culture found in this vibrant community.
With beautiful parks, a rich musical heritage, and ample opportunities to explore, Stockbridge is the perfect place to experience Southern hospitality and culture.
Interesting & Unique Facts About Stockbridge, GA
Stockbridge, Georgia is a city located in Henry County, just 20 miles south of Atlanta. Here are some interesting and unique facts about Stockbridge:
- Stockbridge is named after Levi Stockbridge, a professor at the Massachusetts Agricultural College who helped develop the city’s farming industry in the 1800s.
- Stockbridge is home to the historic Bellah House, a Greek Revival-style mansion built in 1858 that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- The city hosts the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the thousands of cherry trees that were gifted to the city by the Japanese government in 1984.
- Stockbridge is the birthplace of Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Monica, who has sold over 30 million records worldwide.
- The city is also the hometown of NFL player Calvin Johnson, who played for the Detroit Lions and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.
- Stockbridge was once a filming location for the hit TV show “The Walking Dead,” with scenes from the series shot at the Atlanta Motor Speedway and other locations in the city.
- The city has a diverse population, with African Americans making up the majority of residents, followed by White and Hispanic residents.
- The city is located near several major highways, including Interstate 75 and Interstate 675, making it a convenient location for travelers.
- Stockbridge is home to several parks and recreational areas, including Memorial Park, Clark Community Park, and the Panola Mountain State Park.
- The city has experienced significant growth in recent years, with its population nearly doubling between 2000 and 2020, from around 9,000 to over 17,000 residents.
Top 10 Best Things Stockbridge, GA is known For
Stockbridge, Georgia is a city located in Henry County, in the southern part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. Here are 10 of the best things Stockbridge is known for:
- Panola Mountain State Park – This state park offers hiking trails, rock climbing, fishing, and other outdoor activities. It is known for its unique ecosystems, including granite outcroppings and rare plant species.
- The Merle Manders Conference Center – This conference center is a popular venue for weddings, meetings, and other events. It is located on a picturesque lake and offers indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Clark Community Park – This park offers playgrounds, walking trails, sports fields, and a splash pad. It is a popular spot for families and picnics.
- Eagles Landing Country Club – This private golf course and country club is known for its challenging course and luxurious amenities.
- The Mill at Mill Creek – This historic grist mill is now a popular event venue and wedding destination. It is situated on a picturesque creek and offers indoor and outdoor spaces.
- The National Archives at Atlanta – This branch of the National Archives houses records and documents from the southeastern United States. It is a valuable resource for historians and researchers.
- Stockbridge Main Street – This historic downtown area features shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It is known for its charming architecture and small-town feel.
- The Monastery of the Holy Spirit – This monastery is home to Trappist monks who live a contemplative lifestyle. Visitors can tour the monastery and attend services.
- Stockbridge Community Arts Center – This arts center offers classes, workshops, and performances in a variety of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, and music.
- The Beach at Clayton County International Park – This man-made beach features white sand, a water park, and other amenities. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and family fun.
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History & Information of Stockbridge, GA
Located in Henry County, Stockbridge, Georgia was founded in 1829 as a trading outpost along the Indian Trail. It was named in honor of Thomas Stock, a local plantation owner and his family who owned a large amount of property in the area.
The town was once home to two principal industries, brick manufacturing and cotton farming. In 1845, a local brickyard was established near the town, which produced and shipped over 10 million bricks to Memphis, Tennessee for use in the construction of the esteemed Peabody Hotel. Cotton production also boomed in the area and is still evident today with several old cotton gin structures still standing.
During the Civil War, Stockbridge was captured by Union troops, who kept a garrison of troops at the town’s five acre park. This park is now known as Stockbridge’s own Liberty Park, which has a lake, a walking track, baseball fields, a playground, a picnic shelter and a Veteran’s Monument.
Stockbridge is now considered a suburb of Atlanta and the population has grown significantly over the past few decades due to its proximity to Interstate 75. The city still boasts a small-town atmosphere and the downtown area features unique restaurants and heritage sites, such as the Old Stockbridge Jail and the Fountain of Hope, a historic fountain built in 1895.
The city also hosts many family-friendly events, such as the last Saturday of the month Farmers Market, barbeque competitions, car cruises, the Heritage Days festival, and more.