Since 1975, members of the Cherokee County Historical Society (now known as History Cherokee) have led pivotal initiatives to preserve historic properties across our region.
Today, History Cherokee serves the primary role of preservation advocacy within Cherokee County, GA by raising awareness around the people and places that have shaped the area. Our goal is to work for the preservation and revitalization of our region's diverse historic resources and advocate their appreciation, protection and use.
In early 2025, History Cherokee heard that the Hendrix House in Ball Ground, GA was under threat of demolition. Thanks to the help of some community partners, the Hendrix House has been saved and will be relocated down the street from its current location. In the first episode of this three-part series, watch as the Hendrix House is prepared for its move, learn about the history house, why we're saving it, and what is being done to prepare it for moving. Thank you Open Heart Media for helping us tell this story.
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History Cherokee is celebrating 50 years of preserving the places that tell Cherokee County’s story and we want you to wear that legacy with pride. Every building on this shirt is part of Cherokee County’s story and yours. Whether you’ve walked past the Hendrix House or remember growing up near one of these historic landmarks, this shirt connects us all. Pre-order your 50 Years of Preservation t-shirt by July 27, 2025.
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The Preservation Committee promotes and supports History Cherokee’s historic preservation advocacy efforts to ensure that growth and development occur in a way that respects and maintains Cherokee County’s historic character. Committee members help increase awareness of the benefits of historic preservation with programming, educational tours, and the expansion of research materials. Meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at the Cherokee County History Center.
To be a part of the Preservation Committee, please contact Stefanie Joyner at sjoyner@historycherokee.org
Cherokee County has six properties individually listed on the National Register, which means that they have significant historic value to the community. Individual properties must meet criteria that establishes their “significance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture.”
In 2009, the Cherokee County Historical Society released its first list of endangered historic sites and asked county residents to offer comments and vote for the site they felt was most important to save. These comments were shared with the property owner to show them how much the community valued their historic site.
Our goal is to integrate these and other important historic sites into the new construction and development coming in the future.
In 2016, the Historical Society added three new sites to the list to replace the “Saved” ones and will continue to monitor all of the properties. In addition to these sites, we also are working privately with other property owners directly.
There are two National Register Historic Districts in Cherokee County. In order to qualify as a historic district, there must be a large area of contiguous historic sites to qualify. If you are interested in learning more about the historic sites in Cherokee County, please contact History Cherokee, and view the resources available from the Collections and Archives.
History Cherokee recognizes businesses and individuals for their achievements in historic preservation at the annual Preservation Awards Banquet. The awards are given to encourage and educate the community about the benefits of historic preservation and protecting Cherokee County’s unique history.
Properties are judged by the attention given to preserving historic features, and maintaining the integrity of initial design. Historic sites or structures must be at least 50 years old and should exhibit outstanding success in historic preservation. Recently rehabilitated properties or those that have been carefully maintained over the years are eligible and the owners are encouraged to apply.
History Cherokee recognizes businesses and individuals for their achievements in historic preservation at the annual Preservation Awards Banquet. The awards are given to encourage and educate the community about the benefits of historic preservation and protecting Cherokee County’s unique history.
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History Cherokee feels that it is important for communities to retain and honor these historic sites because it gives residents a sense of place – which is critical in maintaining a unique identity in suburban Atlanta. If you know of a site that would be a good candidate, please contact our office or complete the nomination form. This award is honorary and places no restrictions or special designations on the property.
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Admission to the Cherokee County History Center includes access to the museum, temporary exhibition, and research library.
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Discover how you can be a part of history with us through volunteer opportunities, becoming a member, or donating an artifact.
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