Georgia is home to over 450 historical societies, preservation organizations, and heritage groups. From major institutions in Atlanta and Savannah to small-town societies preserving local heritage, these organizations maintain vital connections to Georgia's rich past.
Featured Historical Societies
Georgia Historical Society
Location: Savannah, GA
Founded: 1839
One of the oldest historical organizations in the South, preserving Georgia history through research library, archives, museum exhibitions, and educational programs. Designated as Georgia's state historical society.
Website: georgiahistory.com
Atlanta History Center
Location: Atlanta, GA
Founded: 1926
One of the nation's largest history museums, featuring historic houses, extensive gardens, and collections documenting Atlanta's rise from Civil War ashes to modern metropolis. Includes Swan House and Smith Family Farm.
Website: atlantahistorycenter.com
Augusta Museum of History
Location: Augusta, GA
Founded: 1937
Explores Augusta's history from Native American settlement through modern times. Features exhibits on James Brown, the Masters Tournament, and the city's role in the textile industry and Civil War.
Website: augustamuseum.org
Savannah History Museum
Location: Savannah, GA
Founded: 1996
Interprets Savannah from James Oglethorpe's founding through modern times. Housed in restored 1860 train shed with exhibits on Revolutionary War siege and Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Location: Atlanta, GA
Founded: 1980
Preserves birthplace and childhood neighborhood of civil rights leader. Includes Ebenezer Baptist Church, King Center, and Freedom Hall documenting Civil Rights Movement.
Website: nps.gov/malu
Atlanta History Center
Location: Atlanta, GA
Founded: 1926
Comprehensive history campus with museum, historic houses, and 33-acre gardens. Extensive Civil War collections, Southern folk art, and exhibits on Atlanta's civil rights role.
Website: atlantahistorycenter.com
Georgia Historical Society
Location: Savannah, GA
Founded: 1839
Independent statewide institution with oldest continuously operating research library in South. Extensive manuscripts, rare books, and genealogical resources documenting Georgia history.
Website: georgiahistory.com
Augusta Museum of History
Location: Augusta, GA
Founded: 1937
Documents James Brown's hometown from Native American settlement through Masters Golf Tournament. Collections include Civil War history, textile manufacturing, and music heritage.
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Submit a Society →Additional Georgia History Resources
- Georgia Historical Society - Statewide history organization
- Georgia State Historic Preservation Office - State historic preservation programs
- Georgia Archives - State archives in Morrow