College Park Memorial Commons
Did you know that College Park, Georgia, wasn’t always known by its current name? Originally called Manchester, this charming city embraced the name College Park in 1896, a nod to its rich educational legacy. The change came as a tribute to the historic Cox College, a private women’s institution that thrived from 1842 until 1934, alongside the Georgia Military Academy, now known as Woodward Academy.
Cox College, which originally started as the Southern Female College in LaGrange, Georgia, moved to College Park in 1895. This relocation played a significant role in shaping the city’s identity, making the college a central part of its history. You can see this historical connection reflected in the city’s street names, where the east-west avenues celebrate prestigious Ivy League colleges, while the north-south streets honor influential local residents.
As you stroll through College Park Commons, you’ll come across several military monuments, including a tribute to Vietnam War veteran Major Joseph A. Bishop. This poignant marker was originally situated at Woodward Academy before finding its new home at College Park City Hall. Nearby, the Freedom Tree monument stands tall, dedicated to Captain Edwin Goodwards, Junior, and serves as a solemn reminder of the brave soldiers who have been missing in action or held as prisoners of war.
On July 5, 2025, the city unveiled a beautiful new gazebo, symbolizing remembrance and honoring local war heroes for their sacrifices. This touching ceremony also marked the official renaming of the site to “College Park Common.” The event took place over the 4th of July holiday weekend, a fitting tribute to the community's spirit and resilience, with College Park Mayor Pro-Tem Jamelle McKenzie leading the celebration in partnership with the Atlanta History Center and the College Park Historical Society.
In addition to these heartfelt tributes, a captivating documentary has emerged, showcasing College Park’s vibrant history while honoring the legacy of Cox College. Through poignant personal stories and insightful reflections, the film masterfully connects the past with the present and paints a hopeful picture for the future of College Park.
We hope you enjoy this trip down memory lane. It's a journey we are honored to take with you.