The Fountain in Marietta Square, with Kennesaw Mountain in the background

Once home to the Cobb County Courthouse (which is now adjacent to the park) Marietta Square is at both the physical and emotional center of Marietta, Georgia. The web site of the Marietta Welcome Center is called Marietta Square.

After the Cobb County courthouse burned to the ground in 1848, the land was donated to the city by Mayor John Glover with the provision that it always remain a park or revert to his heirs. The new courthouse moved to its present location, across the street from the southeast corner of the park.

During the Civil War, the park was used as a training ground for the militia. On the north end of the park a well provided water for thirsty men and women with a trough for horses. In the early 1900's the Atlanta trolley system was extended to Marietta and the trolley would turn around by circling the park. There was a maintenance shed across the street from the northeast corner.

Visiting Marietta Square

Gazebo at Marietta Square

Over the years Marietta Square has proven to be a center of the city in more than one way. Festivals, fairs and the annual Marietta Antique Show all heavily rely on the square as a convenient location to set up booths, games and rides. (Dates and times for Marietta, Georgia events)

At the north end of Marietta Square is a concert stage (or bandstand, the popular local name), which features live acts on a regular basis, both during lunch and in the evening. Many of these concerts are free or have a minimal charge.

Clockwise from the bandstand are a children's playground, which features a replica of The General, a popular locomotive that was chased into American History by the Texas on April 12, 1863. Also in this area is a replica of the Liberty Bell, which dedicates the park to John Glover. In addition to being mayor of Marietta, Glover was a major landholder and employer, including his tannery and later a railyard that built locomotives.

The Liberty Bell in Marietta Square dedicates the park to John Glover

At the south end of the park is the gazebo, shaded by a hugh oak tree. This is a frequent site for weddings. On the west side of the park is a statue of noted Marietta orator Alexander Stephens Clay.

Seasonal Events in Marietta Square

The city's Fourth of July party centers on the square and the display of fireworks is one of the most popular in the Southeast United States.

On Labor Day Glover Park is home to a juried fine arts exhibition. This means that each vendor's art is judged prior to the exhibit and only selected artists who display their own work are allowed to set up booths. The result is a group of about 250 booths that represent original works and prints of exceptional quality.

During Christmas time the bandstand area is taken over by elves, who build a home for Santa Claus. This popular addition to the park has children lining up waiting for their chance to see Santa.

Location: Downtown Marietta
Directions: From Atlanta:
Take I-75 North to exit 263 (old exit number 112). Follow (West Bound) to Marietta. This road becomes South Marietta Parkway 120 S. Loop. Follow West about 5 miles to Atlanta Street, turn right. Marietta Square is 2 blocks ahead.

From Kennesaw, Cartersville or Chattanooga
Take I-75 South to exit 267B (old exit number 114B). Follow ramp to Highway 5 (Marietta, Smyrna) Road becomes Church Street. Follow road about 2 1/2 miles to Marietta Square.

From Dallas, Georgia
Take Dallas Highway East past Ridgeway (Barrett). Road becomes Whitlock Avenue. Continue East about 4 1/2 miles crossing S. Marietta Parkway. Marietta Square is just ahead 1 block.

Additional information:
Websites:
Marietta Square
Marietta Antiques

Date added: February 14, 2004
Last update: December 13, 2004