Celebrate Pride Month with a walk through Athens’ LGBTQ+ history, guided by local history enthusiast and Historic Athens Welcome Center staff member Rin Gunn. This two-mile tour explores the people, places, and stories that have shaped queer life in the Classic City, from the Southeast’s first openly gay dance at Memorial Hall in 1972 to the community spaces that continue to thrive today.

Highlights include Church Bar, Memorial Hall, and other meaningful stops that trace the evolution of Athens’ queer community. With a blend of personal insight and local history, Rin offers a thoughtful look at how activism, resilience, and joy have shaped Athens across generations. Whether you’re new to town or have lived here for years, this walk offers an even more diverse perspective on the city we all love.

Tickets may be purchased at bit.ly/heritagewalk25 or by clicking the button below! Historic Athens members receive 20% off of all Heritage Walks by using the code “member25”.

Join artist and activist Broderick Flanigan for a walk through Hot Corner, the historic heart of Black entrepreneurship and culture in downtown Athens. Centered around the intersection of Hull and Washington Streets, Hot Corner thrived in the early 20th century with Black-owned businesses, including barbershops, mortuaries, pharmacies, dental offices, restaurants, and the iconic Morton Theatre.​

Broderick brings a deep personal connection and creative lens to this walk. He has been instrumental in preserving and celebrating Hot Corner's legacy, contributing to projects like the "Hot Corner: An Athens Legacy" mural and co-producing the six-part audio documentary podcast, Hot Corner, which digs into the area's history and ongoing significance. ​

Tickets may be purchased at bit.ly/heritagewalk25 or by clicking the button below! Historic Athens members receive 20% off of all Heritage Walks by using the code “member25”.

Join Linda and Kimberly Davis of the Friends of Brooklyn Cemetery for a walk through one of Athens’ oldest African American cemeteries, tucked behind the Brooklyn and Hawthorne neighborhoods. Established in 1882, Brooklyn Cemetery is the final resting place for Black Athenians from the late 19th century through the present, including more than 40 veterans of both World Wars.

Linda, who has family buried in the cemetery, co-founded the Friends of Brooklyn Cemetery in 2006 and has spent nearly two decades leading its restoration. Kimberly, her daughter, is now helping carry that work forward, preserving both the history of the site and the memory of those laid to rest. With the help of community members, volunteer groups, and student organizations, the Friends of Brooklyn Cemetery brought new life to a place long overlooked.

Tickets may be purchased at bit.ly/heritagewalk25 or by clicking the button below! Historic Athens members receive 20% off of all Heritage Walks by using the code “member25”.

Join longtime resident and Historic Athens board member Kristen Morales for an intimate stroll through Buena Vista Heights, a historic neighborhood just outside Normaltown. Developed in the early 1900s for working families, including streetcar operators and mill workers, the area features homes from the 1890s to the 1960s and reflects a strong sense of community and charm.

Kristen helped lead the effort to designate Buena Vista as a local historic district in 2012, and she’s been guiding this tour ever since. This updated walk includes new stories about the neighborhood’s musical ties, including the house where Widespread Panic signed a record deal on the back porch and recording spots connected to R.E.M. You’ll explore the architecture, hear stories of the people who lived here, and uncover a few surprises that make this neighborhood a beloved area of Athens.

Tickets may be purchased at bit.ly/heritagewalk25 or by clicking the button below! Historic Athens members receive 20% off of all Heritage Walks by using the code “member25”.

Drinks and light refreshments will be included. Space is limited and free to Historic Athens members!

Join us for this month’s History Hour as the University of Georgia Community Mapping Lab presents their work on Brooklyn Cemetery. Community GIS students are creating a more accurate dataset of those buried in the cemetery while mapping connections between these individuals and the broader Black Athens community, including where they lived and worked.

History Hour takes place at the Lyndon House Arts Center on the third Tuesday of each month. Complimentary lunch from Rashe’s Cuisine, including vegan options, will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. This event is free and open to the public.

Step into the powerful history of Linnentown with activist and author Hattie Thomas Whitehead, a former resident and author of "Giving Voice to Linnentown". Once a thriving Black neighborhood on Baxter Street, Linnentown was erased by urban renewal in the 1960s. Learn about the community that once stood, the families who lived there, and the community's fight for recognition and redress, culminating in the 2021 Linnentown Resolution—the first official act of reparations in Georgia. ​Hattie’s personal story and deep knowledge bring urgency and humanity to this important chapter of Athens’ history.

A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit the Athens-Clarke County Center for Racial Justice and Black Futures.

Tickets may be purchased at bit.ly/heritagewalk25 or by clicking the button below! Historic Athens members receive 20% off of all Heritage Walks by using the code “member25”.

Join local history enthusiast and tour guide Luis Vicente-Vazquez for guided walking tour of Oconee Hill Cemetery, established in 1856. Adjacent to the University of Georgia, this historic burial ground reflects the 19th-century garden cemetery movement, featuring meandering paths and natural landscapes. Discover the final resting places of notable individuals, including former Georgia governors, UGA presidents, and cultural figures like Crawford W. Long and Ricky Wilson of the B-52s. The cemetery's diverse architectural styles and significant landmarks, such as the rare through-truss bridge and the architecturally notable Sexton’s House, offer a unique glimpse into Athens' rich history.​

Tickets may be purchased at bit.ly/heritagewalk25 or by clicking the button below! Historic Athens members receive 20% off of all Heritage Walks by using the code “member25”.

The Preserve and Prosper initiative is a community-focused program designed to support low-income homeowners of historic properties. With the help of United Community Bank's volunteer efforts, this program offers workshops to provide financial literacy education and strategies for managing the unique costs of maintaining a historic home. Our mission is to empower homeowners to sustain their properties and maintain their vital place in the community.

Our first session will be held on Thursday, April 24 from 5:30 to 7:00 pm at Firehall No. 2, 489 Prince Avenue, Athens, GA, 30601. This workshop will cover budgeting basics, and the following sessions will be determined by attendees input, interests, and areas of need. Registration is free, but required at bit.ly/preserveandprosper.

Green Acres is a well-established neighborhood in southeast Athens, created in 1956 by Preacher Green, who also founded the Green Acres Baptist Church and the nearby shopping center. Over the years, the neighborhood has expanded from its original thirty families to include over 440 households.

The area features a variety of architectural styles, blending newer homes with well-preserved 1980s designs, adding to its distinctive appeal. With amenities like a neighborhood pool and annual traditions such as the Fourth of July Parade, Green Acres offers a welcoming, family-oriented community that values connection and tradition.

This event will be led by Commissioner Carol Myers, PhD, the current representative for the Green Acres, College Station Road, Gaines School, and Whitehall Road areas.

Originally coined the Model and Training School, this cultural landmark served initially as a basic arithmetic and grammar school but later blossomed into providing a proper arts education to Black Athenians. The school is now named for Judia Jackson Harris, a local woman who took inititiative to better the lives of African American members of the community- particularly those in rural areas. It is her work that advanced many of these students into prominent university life and a successful career, and her impact is felt to this day.

Our speaker for this event will be Dr. Jane McPherson, an Associate Professor at the University of Georgia and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with an extensive background in a human rights approach to social work.

Each month's History Hour is at the Lyndon House Arts Center, every 3rd Tuesday of the month. Complimentary lunch from Rashe's Cuisine is provided on a first come, first serve basis with vegan options available. This event is free and open to the public.

Demosthenian Literary Society, founded in 1803 at the University of Georgia, found its home in Demosthenian Hall in North Campus in 1834. It is one of the oldest buildings on the University's campus, and has many a legend surrounding its "hauntings". It is full of historical books and artifacts, such as the lectern made especially for the Society, and serves as a shining example of well-maintained architecture that has stood the test of its over 200-year lifespan.

This event will be led by Ashlyn Earnest, a current Master of Historic Preservation student at the University of Georgia and longtime member and officer of the Demosthenian Literary Society.

Join us for a Heritage Walk at Sandy Creek Nature Center, led by Dr. Danielle J. Riebe, Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Georgia. Established in 1973 by dedicated local citizens and environmental philanthropist John Ripley Forbes, the center transformed a former brick factory and farmland into a hub for environmental education and preservation.

Today, Sandy Creek Nature Center encompasses 225 acres of woodlands and wetlands just north of Athens, featuring over four miles of trails, including an ADA-accessible interpretive trail. The center offers nature classes, live animal exhibits, and interactive natural history displays, serving as a gateway to outdoor exploration for both residents and visitors.

This event provides an opportunity to delve into the rich history and natural beauty of Sandy Creek, as well as current initiatives, guided by Dr. Riebe's expertise.

Celebrate the return of the Seventh Annual Mardi Gras Masquerade on Fat Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the iconic 40 Watt Club in Downtown Athens. Presented by Levelish Construction, this unforgettable evening will feature live performances by Mary and the Hot Hotty Hots and Brazilian Carnival band Bichos Vivos, festive food from local favorites, a costume contest, and the crowning of the Mardi Gras Court.

Enhance your night with the Nighthawks New Orleans Cocktail Experience, an exclusive pre-event party with handcrafted cocktails, King Cake, and a ride to the venue via Athens Trolley Tours. Proceeds from the event support Historic Athens’ mission to preserve and celebrate the city’s unique history and cultural heritage.

Tickets are available at bit.ly/mardigrasathens, with early access for members beginning January 13 and public sales opening January 16. Don’t miss this incredible celebration of music, food, and community!

Join us for a powerful History Hour featuring Lynette Boggs-Perez, an African-American woman with deep ties to the Athens community, as she shares her journey of uncovering a hidden chapter of her family history. Through a DNA database, Lynette discovered her ancestral connection to an long-established family in Athens.

Lynette’s story is one of resilience, discovery, and reconciliation. She will discuss her decision to reach out to the Hodgson family and her meaningful meeting with her newly discovered family members, which brought together generations of shared history. Lynette will be joined by Tom Hodgson and Mark McKinnon, two of her family members. This session will explore themes of identity, legacy, and the complex relationships that emerge when confronting the past. Want a preview? Watch Lynette’s Rabbit Box Story here!

History Hour takes place at the Lyndon House Arts Center on the first Tuesday of each month. Complimentary lunch from Rashe’s Cuisine, including vegan options, will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. This event is free and open to the public.

Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery, established in 1882 by the Gospel Pilgrim Society, is a significant historic site in Athens, Georgia, serving as a cornerstone of the African American community. The cemetery spans approximately 10 acres and contains an estimated 3,500 graves, many of which are unmarked.

In 2006, the cemetery was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its importance and initiating efforts to raise awareness and promote it as a destination for tourists. However, prior to this recognition, Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery faced nearly three decades of neglect and decline, leading to overgrown vegetation and deteriorating grave markers.

This tour will be led by Fred Smith, the current Executive Director of the East Athens Development Corporation, a member of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), and a member of the Athens Area Black History Committee. Join us to explore the rich history and cultural significance of Gospel Pilgrim Cemetery and to learn about ongoing preservation efforts.

Join us for a shuttle tour of East Athens, led by Taneisha Brooks, a former long-time resident of the area and member of the Historic Athens team. Located just east of downtown Athens and the University of Georgia campus, East Athens is a neighborhood with a rich cultural history and a strong sense of community.

Historically home to Athens' Black working-class families, the area has experienced change in recent years with new developments and an evolving population. While these shifts have brought challenges, such as rising property values and a changing housing landscape, they have also highlighted the resilience and adaptability of the neighborhood's long-time residents.

Despite pressures, the residents of East Athens have maintained deep connections to their neighborhood, continuing to shape its unique identity and working tirelessly to preserve its heritage. Their efforts showcase the strength and pride of a community committed to honoring its past while navigating the present.

This tour is an opportunity to celebrate the history and spirit of East Athens, as told through the insightful perspective of Taneisha Brooks.

In honor of Black History Month, join us for this special History Hour featuring the Friends of Brooklyn Cemetery, an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of one of Athens’ oldest African American cemeteries. Established in 1882, Brooklyn Cemetery is the final resting place of many Black Athenians, with unmarked and deteriorating graves telling stories that remain untold. This sacred space reflects a rich but often overlooked history, and efforts to restore it ensure these lives and their legacies are not forgotten.

The Friends of Brooklyn Cemetery will share the cemetery’s historical significance, their preservation work, and the broader connections it reveals about Athens’ Black community.

History Hour takes place at the Lyndon House Arts Center on the first Tuesday of each month. Complimentary lunch from Rashe’s Cuisine, including vegan options, will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. This event is free and open to the public.

Explore this residential neighborhood which emerged in the late 19th century following the creation and expansion of the University of Georgia with a pair of long-term and educated Holman Avenue residents. You will view many historic homes of victorian and craftsman styles which were built in the early 1900s. As a neighborhood within close proximity to the university, many notable educators and artists have resided throughout this district which has given the area an intellectual and creative community reputation. Located within the Boulevard Historic District, Holman Avenue is a great example of the constantly transforming Athens as various architectural styles and demographics mix within this street to create a remarkable community. 

Check out our full schedule at bit.ly/heritagewalk24

Join Historic Athens for a special viewing of Housing and Historic Preservation: A Joint Webinar on Thursday, November 21 at 5:30 pm at Historic Athens Headquarters, Old Firehall No. 2.

This webinar, presented by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions, will explore how historic preservation can help address the ongoing housing crisis across the nation. The session will cover new policy guidelines, the role of preservation in housing efforts, and strategies for effective messaging.

Following the presentation, there will be a guided discussion on how Athens residents can navigate the housing crisis, get involved, and access resources. This event is free and open ot the public, and we ask all attendees RSVP at bit.ly/nov21screening. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the intersection of historic preservation and housing.

Join us for another FREE Historic Athens History Hour at the Lyndon House Arts Center, hosted by Denise Sunta.

Join us for November's History Hour as we explore the legacy of The Red & Black, the University of Georgia's campus newspaper, which has been a vital part of student life and journalism since its first issue on November 24, 1893. From its origins in the Academic Building, this newspaper has boosted school spirit, promoted athletic programs, and covered cultural activities for the University's students. Initially serving as the official organ of the Athletic Council, The Red & Black transitioned to a laboratory for the School of Journalism and later became an independent, student-run publication in 1980. This event will delve into the newspaper's evolution from a weekly publication to its current format, its role in providing invaluable training for students, and the accomplishments of its distinguished alumni, including Pulitzer Prize winners and prominent media figures. Whether you're a UGA alum, a journalism enthusiast, or simply curious about local history, this event offers a fascinating look at the storied past and ongoing influence of The Red & Black on the University of Georgia and beyond.

All History Hours are catered by Rashe’s Cuisine, one of Historic Athens’ esteemed partners.

This event series is part of Historic Athens' mission to be a proactive force in developing a community-wide understanding of the value of historic buildings, neighborhoods, and heritage. Our public programming aims to bring awareness to communities and connect generations with their heritage. Through the preservation of narratives involving neighborhoods, music, art, restaurants, politics, religion, and society, we will help to tell a fuller story of Athens.

Explore this industrial neighborhood which emerged following the creation of the Chicopee Manufacturing Company which opened in 1901. The Chicopee Mill attracted many workers to settle throughout the surrounding area which led to the emergence of homes meant to house the workers and their families. Learn about this close-knit neighborhood and explore the many music history monuments in the area ranging from Weaver D’s Delicious Fine foods to the steeple where R.E.M. played their first show. You will also witness the serene nature spaces of the North Oconee River which lines this historic district. 

Check out our full schedule at bit.ly/heritagewalk24

Come learn about the history of the Athens’ downtown district from its incredibly well preserved 19th century architecture to the area’s influence on the international music scene throughout the 20th and 21st centuries with an educated and personable local! On this tour, you will learn about the spectacular architecture, a host of notable historic buildings such as the Morton Theater, one of the U.S.’s first African American theaters, many local businesses, the university’s impact on the town, and Athens’ life as a business hub. The countless restored Victorian-style buildings which you will view on this tour will help you develop more of an appreciation for the city of Athens, whether you are a visitor or local alike!

Check out our full schedule at bit.ly/heritagewalk24