Early Days

The backdrop for Change is the rich history of Athens, during which businesses, schools, churches, homes, and organizations were established, grew and sometimes disappeared. Reading historical accounts and viewing the first photographs of Athens reveals a bustling, self-sufficient community where the residents were devoted to making improvements in their lives and advancing common goals. 

There was no local government to guide or regulate development, and the State legislature was not interested in providing support for town or school building projects. Local citizens did it themselves, and made Athens an educational oasis during a time when schooling was clearly acknowledged as the path to achieving the American Dream. Buildings reflected the priority of education and commerce, but In the early days the town did not have fire protection and several buildings went up in flames. To read more visit this section that focuses on the Fire of 1910, the Fire of 1912, or the Fire of 1928.