CANTON, GA – History Cherokee is proud to announce the release of its annual Holiday Ornament, featuring the historic Holly Springs Depot—a beloved Cherokee County landmark with a rich railroad and civic history spanning more than a century.
This ornament marks 25 years of History Cherokee’s beloved annual tradition of celebrating Cherokee County’s architectural treasures through collectible holiday ornaments. Each ornament in the series has featured a significant historic building or scene from across the county, creating a unique chronicle of the region’s heritage.
A Depot with Deep Roots
The Holly Springs Train Depot was constructed in the early 20th century by the Louisville & Nashville Railroad after L&N acquired the Marietta & North Georgia Railroad in 1902. Built in the traditional L&N style found throughout the South, the depot featured distinctive olive green paint with white trim and Folk Victorian architectural elements that remain characteristic of the period.
The depot quickly became the center of commercial activity as Holly Springs developed around it, serving as a vital hub for storing freight and transferring goods of all types throughout the region. In 1974, the building found new purpose as the Holly Springs City Hall, serving the community’s governmental needs until the late 1990s.
Today, restored to its original glory, the depot continues to stand as a cherished Cherokee County landmark, its green and white exterior once again reflecting its railroad heritage.
A Quarter Century of Preservation
The annual ornament series has become a treasured tradition for collectors, history enthusiasts, and Cherokee County residents.
“We’ve watched collectors build their entire set over the years, with some families making it a holiday tradition to add the new ornament each season,” said History Cherokee Executive Director Stefanie Joyner.
All 25 ornaments in the series have showcased different aspects of Cherokee County’s rich architectural heritage, from historic homes to commercial buildings.
Availability
The Holly Springs Depot ornament is available for purchase online at https://shop-history-center.square.site/s/shop and in person at the McClure Family Bookstore and Museum Shop located inside the Cherokee County History Center at 221 E. Marietta St. in Canton. Each ornament includes a commemorative historical story card detailing the depot’s significance.
About History Cherokee
History Cherokee operates the Cherokee County History Center and the Historic Rock Barn. History Cherokee’s mission is the collection, preservation, and interpretation of Cherokee County history.
