20th Anniversary Lobby Exhibit

Incorporated in 2005, Sandy Springs quickly grew into a vibrant, self-governing community.

A display in the lobby of City Hall recognizes some of the many individuals and departments that shaped the city’s early identity, from first responders to civic leaders. Through uniform items, commemorative objects, and community memorabilia, we honor the symbols and people that helped turn vision into reality.

Curated by Kimberly M. Brigance, MHP., ISA AM, Antiques, Furnishings + Decorative Arts

Top Shelf: Images of a New Beginning

Photographs documenting the early days of Sandy Springs’ cityhood. These images capture the spirit, determination, and teamwork that defined the city’s formation and first public services.

Second Shelf: Honoring Our First Responders

(Left to Right)

• Shell Jacket of Fire Chief Jack McElfish
• Worn by Sandy Springs’ first Fire Chief, this jacket represents the founding of the city’s fire services.
• Ceremonial Fire Ax
• Presented to Chief McElfish upon his retirement, this symbolic tool honors his service and leadership.
• Public Safety Insignia
• Patches, badges, and challenge coins displaying the city’s first official logo reflect pride and identity in the new departments.
• Sandy Springs Police Department Gear
• A bulletproof vest, an officer's hat, and a miniature squad car model showcase the formation and professionalism of the city’s police force.

Third Shelf: Community, Culture, and Identity

(Left to Right)

Books

• Publications highlighting Sandy Springs' city planning and community achievements.

Ephemera & Pins

• Commemorative pins and printed materials from city events and milestones celebrate civic pride and participation.

Bottom Shelf: Before Cityhood

"Unincorporated Sandy Springs" Road Sign

This original Georgia Department of Transportation sign symbolized the long-standing status of Sandy Springs as an unincorporated part of Fulton County. It was located on Roswell Road.

"Save Sandy Springs" Campaign Materials

Brochures, buttons, and posters like these reflect the grassroots advocacy that defined the community’s push for self-governance. Local leaders and citizens rallied under slogans such as “Free Sandy Springs” to raise awareness and political pressure.

1976 Bicentennial Showcase Program

• Sandy Springs celebrated America’s bicentennial with pride and civic spirit, even as it remained an unincorporated area. Events like these highlighted the community’s identity, setting the stage for future efforts at formal recognition.
• Community Planning Documents and Photographs
• These bound reports document neighborhood development and civic visioning efforts. The left image displays the city as it looked in the 1960s. The picture on the far right depicts the city as it might appear by 2000.
• "I Love Sandy Springs" Pennant
• Carried in the 1990s, the pennant shows the growing support for the creation of a new city.