Historical Marker Dedicated at Home Depot Headquarters
The Georgia Historical Society honored the retailer for its significant contributions to the state's economy.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Openings & Closings
Live Poll
Do you believe historical markers accurately reflect a company's total impact on your community?
The Georgia Historical Society recently dedicated a new historical marker at The Home Depot Store Support Center in Atlanta. The ceremony recognized the company for its major impact on the home improvement industry and its role in Georgia's development.
Why it matters
This marker highlights the firm's growth from a local start-up to an international retail powerhouse. It serves as an official acknowledgment of the brand's enduring influence on Georgia's economic, cultural, and social landscape.
The Home Depot is the 29th company recognized by the Georgia Business History Initiative. The firm has expanded from its initial two stores opened in 1979 to a massive international chain.
The players
The Home Depot
This American home improvement retailer was founded in 1978 and grew to operate stores across North America.
Georgia Historical Society
This organization maintains historical records and manages initiatives to document the state's business and cultural history.
Bernie Marcus
He was a co-founder of The Home Depot who helped launch the company in 1978.
Arthur M. Blank
He served as a co-founder of The Home Depot along with Bernie Marcus.
The details
Representatives from both the historical society and the retailer attended the dedication to celebrate the company's journey since its founding. The marker chronicles key milestones including the 1981 public offering and the company's international expansion into Canada and Mexico.
Timeline
1978: The Home Depot was founded.
June 22, 1979: The first two stores opened in Atlanta.
1981: The company went public.
1989: The company opened its 100th store.
Wednesday, September 23, 2026: The historical marker was dedicated.
Market Landscape
The dedication of this marker follows a pattern set by the Georgia Business History Initiative in its multi-year effort to document the state's commercial heritage. This recognition cements the firm's legacy as a cornerstone of the regional economy amid broader national retail trends.
While this marker acts as a commemorative tribute, it does not directly alter current store operations or pricing for customers. Residents and shoppers can view the marker at the Atlanta headquarters to learn more about the company's local roots.
The takeaway
The marker serves as a permanent record of the retail chain's evolution from a local experiment to a global entity. It provides a tangible link for the community to understand the origins of a major regional employer.
Further reading
For more information on local business milestones, visit the Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WSB-TV Channel 2 - Atlanta.
Live Poll
Do you believe historical markers accurately reflect a company's total impact on your community?
