Located right off the Moreland Avenue exit off I-20 East and 3 miles from Downtown Atlanta, the East Atlanta Village is a stomping ground for artists and the eccentric. The East Atlanta Village (EAV) was not always what we know of it today. Presently, we think of the EAV as a place where we can go eat at the Flat Iron Restaurant or watch a show at 529 Bar. We might get brunch on the weekends at Argosy or The Earl to cure our hangovers after a night of going out and walking the amber lit streets. Before this, the EAV was a small town within a large city and had everything one could need: pharmacy, bakery, theater, dry cleaners, etc. It has evolved over the past 150 years, and yet, it still maintains an intense dynamic energy and the community continues to thrive, and has expanded more than any other neighborhood in Atlanta.

The EAV has been an important piece to Atlanta and Civil War history. The Battle of East Atlanta was fought at the main intersection of Glenwood and Flat Shoals Avenues. In July 1864, 12,000 soldiers lost their lives, including Confederate General Walker and Union General McPherson.

After the Civil War and General Sherman’s March to the Sea destroyed Atlanta, East Atlanta began its reconstruction and became a suburb. By 1889, it was established as an unincorporated suburb. At the turn of the century, the new streetcar brought businesses and local farmers brought in their goods to sell.

Continuing into the 20th century, East Atlanta had gone through many stages. During the 1960s, the Civil Rights Movement was at large and the KKK had a headquarters across the neighborhood, making the neighborhood a target. At the time, it was 60% African-American and were in constant threat. Despite the social issues in the neighborhood and the South in general, many African-Americans were able to purchase land, homes, and own businesses in this area.

During the 1980s and 90s after the “White Flight” Movement, the EAV became a little slum. The value of property decreased and developers did not invest in the area. 60% of the shops in were boarded up along with many houses. Although this was occurring, the neighborhood remained stable and families continued to raise their children in this environment.

In the late first decade of the 21st century, EAV saw a major change. Many young adults began to migrate to the neighborhood and quickly made the neighborhood into a lively town filled with tattoos and quirky fashion. New shops and restaurants began to emerge and developers began to invest in the rebuilding of this small neighborhood. Today, East Atlanta Village is characterized by art designed byt locals, interesting and eclectic music and food, and most importantly, unique residents. This is a place for everyone and anyone who enjoys being in a community filled with so many different things. It is not a mystery why it keeps growing. No matter what, the EAV is here to stay and will continue to thrive because of its dedicated residents and community!