Telling the whole story: KSU Public History program helps Adairsville bring together pieces of its past

KENNESAW, Ga. (Nov 3, 2017) — If you love history, antiquing and good food, Georgia’s official tourism website advises, visit Adairsville — “a Norman Rockwell kind of town.” The site of the Civil War era’s legendary Great Locomotive Chase, Adairsville’s history has centered largely around its role as a transportation hub — halfway between Atlanta and Chattanooga — especially the railroad. Its fabled depot was converted to the Adairsville Rail and Depot Age of Steam Museum in 2001 but closed after 10 years. Through a partnership between the city, the San Souci Women’s Club and Kennesaw State University’s Public History program, a focus on history has returned to the heart of Adairsville.