Coweta County's historic Brown’s Mill Battlefield has officially become a part of the National and Georgia Registers for Historic Places, as announced earlier this week. The scene of pivotal Civil War action, the site now stands as a testament to Georgia's storied past and serves as a hub for education and recreation.

“We are thrilled that Brown’s Mill Battlefield was selected as a Historic Place,” Commissioner Bill McKenzie said, representing District 2 where the site is located. He expressed his hopes for the site, stating “We hope citizens from across Georgia and our nation will visit, learn more about its history, and enjoy the park amenities with their family, friends, and four-legged companions.” This milestone is the result of decades of effort spearheaded by the Brown’s Mill Battlefield Association along with crucial help from Coweta County's departments.

The nomination process that culminated in this recognition began in 2001 when Sandra Parker, a Coweta County employee who has since retired, commenced her work on this ambitious project. Over the years, this mission has been bolstered by contributions from local historians, county departments, and community leaders such as Dr. David Evans and Carolyn Turner, President of the Brown’s Mill Battlefield Association. “The Battle at Brown’s Mill changed the tactics during the Civil War, causing a major turn in the Atlanta campaign,” Turner explained, emphasizing the importance of the site.

On July 30, 1864, the battlefield was the stage for an encounter that significantly influenced General William T. Sherman’s military maneuvers during the Civil War. In the clash, General Edward M. McCook’s Union cavalry was bested by Confederate forces under General Joseph Wheeler’s command. The outcome of this battle played a critical role in Sherman’s Atlanta campaign strategy adjustment.

Today, Brown’s Mill Battlefield stretches beyond its historical significance, offering over four miles of hiking trails, a quarter-mile ADA accessible trail, and six miles of trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. It’s a place where the past mingles with present pleasure, inviting visitors to ponder history while engaging with nature. For those looking to experience this unique site, more information is available at the official Coweta County website.