The Marietta History Center is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Marietta and Cobb County, and it features a variety of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays. Established in 1996 as the Marietta Museum of History, the center offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the people, events, and industries that have shaped the community over the years.
The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the history of Marietta and Cobb County from when the Native American tribes that once lived in the area, to Civil War battles, the role of the region in World War II, and other major events in American history.
The museum features exhibits that highlight the city’s cultural heritage and its contributions to the history of Georgia and the United States. Some of the exhibits include:
- General History: features exhibits on the local Native American culture, the early gold mining industry of our state, and influential local businesses. This includes displays on the Bell Aircraft Corporation and the Lockheed Martin Corporation, both of which have a presence in Marietta.
- Andrews’ Raiders Room: The exhibit depicts the thrilling tale of Union raiders’ audacious plan to sabotage Confederate supply lines during the Civil War. The remarkable events that transpired during the theft started in a hotel room located in the Kennesaw House. The room boasts a reconstruction of that hotel room from the 1860s, incorporating genuine furnishings from the Kennesaw House, and a timeline of The Great Locomotive Chase saga.
- Military Gallery: The museum has a large collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the American Civil War, including weapons, uniforms, and personal items of soldiers who fought in the war. The collection also includes displays from the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and more.
- Home Life: This exhibit showcases what life was like for families in Marietta during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The exhibit features period furniture, clothing, and other household items.
Additional temporary exhibits highlight other unique facets of local history as well.
In addition, the Marietta History Center offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. The museum also maintains an extensive archive of historical documents and photographs, which is available to researchers and scholars.
The museum gift shop, located to the right just after you enter, features Marietta and Cobb County themed books, ornaments, mugs, magnets, Big Chicken souvenirs, Civil War-era bullets, and more items and souvenirs available for purchase.
A visit to the Marietta History Center is a great way to learn more about the history of Marietta and Cobb County, as well as the broader history of Georgia and the American South.
Hours and Admission:
10 am to 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday
Closed Sundays, Mondays, Easter, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas, New Year’s Day
Admission:
Admission is $10 for Adults, $7 for students and seniors (60+), and free for children under 5, museum members, and active military with i.d.
Location:
The Marietta History Center is located in the historic Kennesaw House. The front door faces the railroad tracks and is next to the Marietta Welcome Center.
Parking:
Parking is available in the two hour public parking lot on the corner of North Marietta Parkway (the 120 Loop) and Mill Street.
Marietta Square Parking
Marietta History Center
1 Depot Street, Suite 200
Marietta, GA 30060
770-794-5710
About The Kennesaw House
The Kennesaw House is a significant landmark in Marietta, and the building has been used in a variety of ways over the years.
Antebellum Resort:
In the antebellum period, the Kennesaw House served as a summer resort for planters who were drawn to the town’s lively social scene.
Civil War Significance:
It played a crucial role during the Civil War, serving as a meeting point for J. J. Andrews and his Federal raiders before the Great Locomotive Chase, a hospital for Confederate wounded, and a refuge for civilians.
Sherman’s Headquarters:
General Sherman used the Kennesaw House as his headquarters in July, 1864, while directing the pursuit of Confederate forces retreating towards Atlanta.
Post-War Tourism:
After the war, the Kennesaw House continued to be an important stop for northern visitors wintering in Marietta.
Current Use:
Today, the Kennesaw House is home to the Marietta History Center, which is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Marietta and Cobb County.
