Oglethorpe Park facts for kids

Oglethorpe Park was a public park in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. It was a large green space, about 50 acres (20 ha) in size. The park opened in 1869 and became a popular spot for big events.

One of the most famous events held there was the International Cotton Exposition in 1881. After this big fair, the park was sold. It was then turned into a factory called the Exposition Cotton Mills. Even though Oglethorpe Park closed, its sale helped create two other important parks in Atlanta: Grant Park and Piedmont Park.

A New Park for Atlanta

After the American Civil War, the city of Atlanta wanted more public parks. At that time, Atlanta had two main parks: City Park and City Hall Park. But City Park was badly damaged during the war. Its land was later used for new businesses.

City Hall Park was also lost. Its land was given to the state government. This is where the Georgia State Capitol building stands today. Atlanta also had fairgrounds since 1850. But these were too small for large events.

The Need for More Space

So, finding land for a new, bigger park was very important. Atlanta Mayor William Hulsey led this effort. He had help from Hannibal Kimball. Kimball was a well-known "booster" for Atlanta. A booster is someone who strongly supports and promotes their city. Kimball helped bring the state capital to Atlanta. He also built the famous Kimball House hotel.

On March 30, 1869, Atlanta bought land for the new park. It was located near Marietta Street, next to the Western and Atlantic Railroad. This spot was about two miles from the city's main train depot. The city bought 47.25 acres (19.12 ha) of land. It cost about $100 for each acre.

Developing Oglethorpe Park

Hannibal Kimball was in charge of building the new park. He made sure the land was properly leveled. He also oversaw the construction of all the necessary park buildings.

Oglethorpe Park had many cool features. It had a beautiful lake. There was also a popular race track. People loved to take their carriages for rides on the track.

Fairs and Expositions

Starting in 1870, Oglethorpe Park became a major event venue. It hosted the annual North Georgia State Fair. The Georgia State Fair also took place there sometimes. Other times, it was held in Macon, Georgia.

By 1879, the park was very valuable. A city report said it was worth $100,000. This showed how important the park had become to Atlanta.

In 1881, Hannibal Kimball directed a huge event. It was called the International Cotton Exposition. This was Atlanta's first international fair. It ran from October 5 to December 3. The main attraction was a working textile mill. This mill showed how cotton was turned into fabric.

Park Closure and New Beginnings

After the International Cotton Exposition, Oglethorpe Park was sold. The city sold the park and the mill for $15,000. The mill and the surrounding area became known as the Exposition Cotton Mills.

The closure of Oglethorpe Park led to new parks. A local businessman named Lemuel Grant gave land to the city. The city used the money from selling Oglethorpe Park to improve this new land. This area became Grant Park.

Also, people who enjoyed driving their carriages at Oglethorpe Park formed a club. They worked to create another new park. This effort eventually led to the creation of Piedmont Park a few years later. So, even though Oglethorpe Park was gone, it helped shape Atlanta's future green spaces.