Fun Alpharetta Facts – North Atlanta/Alpharetta, Ga

Alpharetta Facts

Fact 1: In 1932, Alpharetta was the county seat of Milton County and was a bustling center of local politics and culture. Following the Depression, the town was annexed into Fulton County, which is home to Atlanta. Until the late 20th century, Alpharetta remained a vibrant farming and cotton growing community but the rapid growth of Atlanta brought swift development and population growth northward.

Fact 2: Alpharetta’s original town charter gave the city the right to tax local businesses no more than $25 a year.

Fact 3: Alpharetta derives its name from the Greek terms “alpha,” which mean first, and “retta,” which means town, as it was originally the county seat for Milton County.

Fact 4: The Mansell House and Gardens is a treat for history buffs. Built in 1912 by Robert and Maude Mansell, the historic Queen Anne style residence now houses the Alpharetta Historical Society.

Fact 5: Although Alpharetta’s courthouse was burned during the Civil War, many of the town’s records were saved. Dr. O.P. Skeleton confiscated the documents and fled to Jackson County, later asking the town of Alpharetta for $30 in return.

Fact 6: Alpharetta’s historic town square draws visitors with its charming assortment of restaurants and shops.

Fact 7: Wills Park features a 50-acre equestrian center with 298 stalls. The center hosts frequent horse shows and special events including bull riding, rodeos and symphony performances.

Fact 8: Many leading technology companies such as IBM, Lucent, Verizon, Sun Microsystems, AT&T and Alltell have offices in Alpharetta.

Fact 9: Big Creek Greenway provides a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the highways. The six-mile path runs alongside the creek through serene wooded areas.

Fact 10: Annual events help foster Alpharetta’s community spirit. Each year, residents look forward to Main Street Markets, a spring-fall weekend gift market; Old Soldier’s Day Parade, a favorite August festivity; and the Mayor’s Challenge, a fall foot race.

Where to watch the 4th of July Fireworks – North Atlanta, Ga

4th of July Celebration at Wills Park!

Celebrate Independence Day with family and friends at Wills Park. Bring your blanket or yard chairs and picnic basket and relax under the stars. Activities include free children’s game, concert by the Alpharetta City Band and other musicians. Watch a beautiful fireworks display at dusk. Children’s activities and musical entertainment will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on the Event Lawn behind Alpharetta Community Center. Food vendors will be located throughout the park selling food items. The spectacular fireworks show begins at dusk