Atlanta in 50 Objects
A pink pig and a renegade cow. A movie prop and a Coke bottle. A Pulitzer Prize–winning book and a Nobel Prize–winning icon.
How do you tell the story of Atlanta in 50 objects? We decided the best experts were Atlantans themselves—residents who cheer the Braves and rue I–285 rush-hour traffic, who understand how Civil War losses and Civil Rights victories together helped forge the city’s unique identity. Atlanta History Center asked the public to submit what objects they think best represent their town. The parameters were broad: an object could also be a person, a place, an institution, or an idea. After receiving hundreds of submissions, History Center staff assembled a collection of fifty pieces that represent the themes identified by the public. In addition to items from our own collections, we have partnered with many local institutions and individuals to gather artifacts from around the city to tell this community–driven story.
Rich's
Founded by Hungarian-born immigrant Morris Rich in 1867, Rich’s department store grew to become a beloved Southern institution.
In 1924, M. Rich & Brothers Co. moved to the corner of Alabama and Broad Streets. In 1948, Rich’s first placed a Christmas tree on the roof of the Crystal Bridge, which connected the main store with the new Store for Homes across Forsyth Street. The lighting of the Great Tree became a Thanksgiving night tradition that continued downtown until 1990. The Pink Pig monorail debuted in 1959, delighting children before visiting Santa as they rode above the toy department, or later on the rooftop.
Family control of the company ended in 1976 when Rich’s merged with Federated Department Stores. In 1994, Rich’s competitor R.H. Macy & Co. merged with Federated and shoppers adjusted to the dual name brand of Rich’s-Macy’s. In March 2005, Federated dropped the Rich’s name and Atlanta’s hometown department store disappeared.
Children waiting to ride the Pink Pig. Courtesy of James T. Martin
The Rich’s Great Tree on the Crystal Bridge, ca. 1950. Kenan Research Center at Atlanta History Center, Kenneth G. Rogers Photographs
Children waiting to ride the Pink Pig. Courtesy of James T. Martin