Historical Cobb County facility celebrates 175th year - Atlanta News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports | FOX 5

When the early settlers of Georgia were staking their claim in Cobb County, one of the first places they wanted to establish was a place to come together and worship. What they started, now known as the Marietta Campmeeting and Campground, is celebrating its 175th birthday.

It was established in 1837 and started as a Methodist church, according the organization's website.

"They took four men, contributed $5 and the rest of it was taken up in small increments. And they bought 40 acres of land here for $40," said historian Ron Phillips.

For a place to worship, they first built an arbor. With small improvements over the years, it's still in remarkable shape.

"They had a dirt floor, now it's concreted. They worshipped here every year starting in 1837 until the Civil War started in 1861," said Phillips.

There was a short break in revivals during the war, but for 175 years families have been coming and staying in one of the 23 original cabins in the encampment.

During the day, the children have classes similar to Vacation Bible School. At night, the families stay in the cabins. The structures are primitive, but some have undergone modernization, like adding a bathroom.

The cabins, also called tents, have been passed down through the generations.

"They tend to continue to come back and worship here and take vacations and it's a combination family reunion and revival for 10 days," said Phillips.

The Marietta Campmeeting and Campground is non-denominational, and they are open to everyone. This year, they say they're expecting about 2,500 people from around the country. The camp meeting ends on Sunday.

For more information on the campground, visit www.mariettacampmeeting.org