If you have ever been to Buckhead, you know that the triangular park area where Peachtree meets Roswell Road, just north of where East Paces Ferry becomes West Paces Ferry, is an iconic part of the community. You also probably know that up until April 2015, it was in much need of an update.
Though it took a little longer than promised, due to roadwork and the overall busyness of the area, and cost $2.5 million, the Buckhead Community Improvement District finally completed the project last month, and it looks amazing.
The official name is Charlie Loudermilk Park — Loudermilk is an Atlanta business icon and the founder of Aaron’s, Inc. — and a statue of the park’s namesake sits in the center. There is also a large clock tower similar to the one at the University of North Carolina. (Don’t worry UGA and Georgia Tech fans; the clock tower is just another homage to Loudermilk, who attended UNC.) The park also features a grassy lawn, a water feature and a patio with several covered tables and chairs.
History of the Area
Many Atlanta residents may not know it, but this particular triangle plays a major role in Buckhead history. In 1838, a man named Henry Irby purchased 202 1/2 acres, and built a general store and tavern at the location on the northwest side. He called it Irbyville. Legend has it, he once killed a large deer (a buck) and hung the head outside the tavern, which is how the community became known as Buckhead. It eventually became a vacation spot for wealthy Atlanta residents.
The Future
The new park provides a bit of serenity at one of the busiest intersections in Atlanta. Patrons of one of the many shows at the Buckhead Theatre can relax there and wait for the venue’s doors to open. Employees of nearby shops and business can take their lunch breaks there on a sunny spring afternoon. Some new construction, including new residences, is also planned for the area around the park in the future, so it looks like this community is well on its way to becoming the hotspot it once was.
If you are looking for a home near Charlie Loudermilk Park or anywhere in Buckhead contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 404.237.5000 to find the place of your dreams.