News

Historic Kennesaw a Hit for Families

KENNESAW – Readers of Our Kids Atlanta magazine have picked two Kennesaw attractions as their “Favorite Historic Sites.” The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History and Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park shared the top honor in the August issue of the free magazine for Atlanta parents.

“For the past several months, we ran a questionnaire asking parents what their favorite places for kids were, and they wrote in the answers and sent them in,” explained Brooke Schmidt, Calendar Editor for Our Kids Atlanta. “There’s so much Civil War history in Kennesaw. What makes the Southern Museum and Kennesaw Mountain family friendly is that it’s nice to go to one area where families can learn so much. Plus it’s affordable and convenient.”

Museum Education Coordinator Jennifer Legates said , “We’re thrilled to be voted a Favorite Historic Site for Atlanta families. It’s so important that children learn about our local history, and we’ve worked hard to make learning about it an adventure.

“Through interactive exhibits and several hands-on activities, we try to engage children’s imaginations and make their trip to the Museum fun,” she said. “Our three permanent collections feature long rifles, swords, and uniforms from the Civil War, a locomotive factory from the turn of the century, and the engine stolen during the Civil War’s Great Locomotive Chase, the General.

“The Museum offers a 25-minute film chronicling the exciting chase that rivets children’s attention – it’s an action packed story that involves espionage and heroism,” she said.

Kennesaw Mountain towers over the surrounding countryside, offering children a challenging hike, and was the site of a heated Civil War battle. This historic site has miles of earthworks and offers a variety of kid-friendly activities including a newly renovated museum display.

“Children really enjoy seeing our cannons fire during the summer,” according to Park Superintendent John Cissell. “Plus we have over 17 miles in trails to hike, and offer a Junior Ranger program, where children complete tasks and earn a badge and certificate.”

Both attractions are just a few miles apart and easily accessible from Interstate 75. For more information about the Museum, visit www.southernmuseum.org or call (770) 427-2117; about Kennesaw Mountain, visit www.nps.gov/kemo or call (770) 427-4686