The area soon to be known as Piedmont Park was owned by Benjamin Walker, who purchased the 189 acres (0.76 km 2) in the 1830s from a man who had won the land in the land lottery. Walker farmed the land until, in 1887, he sold the land to the Gentlemen's Driving Club, known today as the Piedmont Driving Club, who planned 'to form exclusive club and racing ground for horse enthusiasts'. The driving club entered into an agreement with the Piedmont Exposition Company to use the grounds around the track as exposition space. Collier, a prominent Atlanta businessman and former lawyer, was president of the company.
Soon after, a main building, grandstands, and club house were built for the track. The 1887 Piedmont Exposition Ģ006 Dogwood Festival with Midtown Atlanta skyline in backgroundĮxhibitors showed off a variety of items including works of art, local raw materials like manganese marble, and wood work. Many prominent figures of the day were in attendance to see the displays.
Hill of New York spoke at the event as well as President Grover Cleveland who attended with his wife, Frances Folsom. Over 50,000 people were in attendance for Cleveland's speech. #24 HOUR GAY BAR ATLANTA PIEDMONT PARK PROFESSIONAL#.
