The Zero Mile Post is a short granite column that had two towering roles in Atlanta’s history: first, it marked the terminus of the first rail line to be built here (hence our city’s first name, Terminus).
And then it marked the exact center of the city.
It’s hard to find now, because a bridge and a building were built over it, and few people are allowed inside the locked doors to see the old landmark.
But now comes word that the building that surrounds the Zero Mile Post is to be torn down.
This is good news, right? Now you’ll be able to see it?
That’s the general plan. But once the new construction is complete, don’t necessarily expect to see the post in the same spot where it’s stood since 1850. Some suggestions involve finding it a new home.
To some, moving a place marker defeats the purpose of a place marker, even one that’s nearly 170 years old—maybe especially one that’s nearly 170 years old.
Read more about the Zero Mile Post and what's lies ahead for the downtown space surrounding it.
