Roswell

Roswell, Georgia: A Historic Gem Along the Chattahoochee

Roswell stands as one of Georgia's most cherished historic communities, uniquely positioned along nine miles of the scenic Chattahoochee River in northern Fulton County. As of July 2021, the city boasts a population of 94,959, making it Georgia's eighth largest city. This remarkable growth has occurred primarily over the last twenty years, transforming Roswell from a quiet historic town into a thriving suburban destination that masterfully balances preservation of its rich heritage with modern amenities and exceptional quality of life.

Rich Civil War History and Heritage

Roswell was incorporated on February 16, 1854, and by the time of the Civil War, its cotton mills were a crucial part of the Southern economy. The Roswell Mills produced "Roswell Gray" fabric for Confederate military uniforms, making them strategically important to the South's military supply chain. The mills' significance led to one of the most dramatic events in Roswell's history when Union troops burned the mills and arrested 400 women and children, charging them with treason and sending them north to uncertain fates.

After the Civil War, one mill was rebuilt only to be destroyed again by fire in 1926. Today, the Roswell Mill ruins in Old Mill Park serve as a poignant reminder of this turbulent period, with the original waterfall that powered the mills creating a picturesque setting for visitors to connect with the area's compelling history.

Exceptional Real Estate Market and Home Values

Roswell's real estate market reflects its desirability as a premier suburban destination. The current median home price is $651,000, representing a 2.5% increase from the previous year, while the average house price reached $775,000 last month, up 13.1% since last year. Homes for sale range from $68,000 to $6,750,000 with a median list price per square foot of $244, demonstrating the diverse range of housing options available.

The city offers an impressive variety of architectural styles and neighborhoods, from historic antebellum homes in the downtown area to modern luxury subdivisions throughout the community. The housing market scores 69 out of 100 for competitiveness, indicating strong demand while still providing opportunities for buyers.

Historic Downtown Roswell: Cultural Heart of the Community

Downtown Roswell is renowned for its charming streets, historic homes, boutique shops, art galleries, parks and public spaces, and wide range of restaurants and bars. The area centers around Roswell Town Square, which hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Roswell Arts Festival and the Roswell Wine Festival.

Canton Street forms the heart of the historic district, where historic houses have been converted into restaurants and shops, all within walking distance. This unique setting allows visitors to experience quaint, historic charm while enjoying modern amenities, including the distinctive feature of being able to carry beverages as you stroll through the district.

Key cultural attractions include the Roswell Cultural Arts Center and the Roswell Historic District, which showcase the community's commitment to preserving its heritage while fostering contemporary arts and culture.

Chattahoochee River Parks and Recreation

Roswell stretches nine miles along the Chattahoochee River, with several parks providing either access or views to the river – Garrard Landing, Don White Memorial Park, Riverside Park, Azalea Park, and Willeo Park. These riverside locations offer residents and visitors unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation.

The crown jewel of the area's natural attractions is the Chattahoochee Nature Center, a 127-acre award-winning interpretive center featuring a Gold level LEED-certified Discovery Center Museum, nature trails, butterfly gardens, and a river boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy hands-on exhibits that tell the Chattahoochee River's story, watch the documentary "Re-Imagine the Chattahoochee" in the theater, and explore diverse habitats.

The historic Roswell Mill, now part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, provides additional recreational and educational opportunities while preserving the area's industrial heritage.

Educational Excellence and Community Amenities

The City of Roswell maintains 13 parks with over 900 acres of active and passive parkland and facilities, demonstrating the community's commitment to quality of life and recreation. The city's dedication to excellence has been recognized through prestigious awards, including being chosen twice by "Atlanta Magazine" as the best place to live in the Metro-Atlanta area and receiving the City of Excellence Award from the Georgia Municipal Association in 2003.

The area is served by highly-rated schools that contribute to Roswell's appeal for families, with both public and private educational options available throughout the community.

Corporate Presence and Economic Stability

While Roswell has evolved from its textile mill origins, it continues to attract businesses and corporations that value the combination of historic charm, strategic location, and quality of life. The city's proximity to Atlanta provides access to major employment centers while maintaining its distinctive suburban character.

Quality of Life and Community Character

Roswell's major population growth has occurred in just the last twenty years, yet the community has successfully managed this expansion while preserving its historic character and small-town charm. Located twenty miles north of Atlanta on the Chattahoochee River, Roswell has evolved from being part of the Cherokee Nation to a textile mill town to a celebrated historical suburb.

The city's unique blend of historical significance, natural beauty, cultural amenities, and modern conveniences makes it an exceptional place to live. From exploring Civil War history to enjoying world-class dining and shopping, from hiking along the Chattahoochee to attending festivals in the town square, Roswell offers residents and visitors a rich tapestry of experiences that honor the past while embracing the future.

The community's commitment to preserving its heritage while fostering growth and innovation has created a distinctive quality of life that continues to attract families, professionals, and retirees seeking the perfect balance of history, culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities in one of Georgia's most beloved cities.