Cultural Resources Survey of the Proposed 36 Acre Retail Center Tract, Stone Mountain, Gwinnett County, Georgia

In July 1997, Brockington and Associates, Inc. conducted a cultural resources survey of the proposed Retail Center development tract in Gwinnett County, Georgia. The tract is composed of approximately 36 acres on the north side of U.S. 78, east of Stone Mountain, Georgia in Gwinnett County. The survey was conducted for JDN Development Company, Inc. to fulfill Section 404 requirements of the Clean Water Act of 1948 (as amended through 1972). It consisted of background research, and archaeological and architectural field survey. Background research was conducted at the Georgia Archaeological Site Files in Athens and the Historic Preservation Division (HPD) of the Department of Natural Resources. Research at the site files identified no previously recorded archaeological sites within 0.8 kilometer (0.5 mile) of the project tract. Research at the HPD identified no previously recorded historic properties within 0.8 kilometer (0.5 mile) of the project tract. Examination of two historic maps and a published history of Gwinnett County did not identify any potential historic resources near the project tract. Archaeological field survey consisted of shovel test excavation in a grid pattern of parallel transects 30 meters (100 feet) apart over the project tract. The field survey identified one archaeological site. It is recommended ineligible for the NRHP. The survey also identified one isolated find. No further archaeological work is recommended in the project tract. Architectural field survey consisted of visual inspection of all standing structures in the project tract. A building at 4925 Highway 78 is estimated to be over 50 years of age. It is a side-gabled residence built in the Minimal Traditional (ca. 1930-1955) style with Tudor Revival characteristics. Georgia Historic Preservation Division staff indicate that this residence is eligible for the NRHP. The historic residence at 4925 Highway 78 will be adversely affected by the construction of the proposed retail center; current plans involved demolition of the building. The building may not be quite 50 years old, and it is recommended that additional background research be conducted to determine its date of construction. If it is found to be over 50 years old, then there are two management options. The first is that Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) level documentation (consisting of large format photographs and a site plan) be conducted to mitigate the adverse physical impacts to the historic residence. The second option is to move the structure to a new location. If the structure is moved, then steps should be taken to insure that its integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association is preserved to a high degree as possible.