DeKalb Kicks Off Bicentennial Celebration on Dec. 9

DeKalb County will kick off its Bicentennial festivities on Dec. 9, 2022,

which marks the founding of the county in 1822.

The yearlong celebration of the county’s rich, diverse history and culture will begin at 6 p.m. in the Historic DeKalb County Courthouse, located at 101 East Court Square, Decatur.

“The yearlong celebration of DeKalb’s bicentennial will serve as a unifying force in the life of our county,” said DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond. “History is more than the simple recitation of facts and dates. A more expansive and inclusive presentation of DeKalb’s history will strengthen our resolve to overcome present challenges and achieve future goals and objectives.”

DeKalb was formed by an act of the Georgia Legislature on Dec. 9, 1822, from portions of Fayette, Gwinnett and Henry counties.

The county was named in honor of Johann de Kalb, a native of Germany and self-proclaimed baron who aided the American colonists in their fight for independence from England.

During the kickoff, a rendering of a mural depicting the history of DeKalb County from prehistoric times to modern development will be unveiled. CEO Thurmond will also provide an update on plans to refurbish the Historic DeKalb County Courthouse and implementation of the county’s Bicentennial Beautification Plan. 

The honorary chairs of the county’s bicentennial commission also will be announced.

The event is free and open to the public.