How did a DeKalb town disappear?

Around the turn of the 20th century, there were big plans for the new “beautiful suburban town” of Montreal in DeKalb County.

It was along what is Montreal Road today and covered about 100 acres. It had streets (First through Sixth) crossed by avenues (Forest, Central, Atlanta) and lots for $25, or $2.50 a month, no interest, according to a 1970 article in The Eagle publication.

MORE HISTORY: How did DeKalb cities get their unusual names?

“Come out and go with us,” a developer’s ad for property invited. “FREE train ride.”

But Montreal’s ride ended soon thereafter.

According to the Tucker Historical Society, it faded like other communities along the railroad line, such as Gloster, Luxomni, Braden, Wallace and Amour.

Though the developer boasted that 800 lots were sold and a store and post office sprung up, apparently it wasn’t enough to sustain the town.

Most of the roads remained unpaved.

A schoolhouse burned and was never replaced.

According to the historical society, Montreal remained “part of the local identity” for more than 20 years.

But eventually, the lots returned to farmland and the area would have to wait decades for development to come, though the name Montreal never returned.

Like DeKalb County News Now on Facebook | Follow on Twitter and Instagram

About the Author

Texas Roadhouse fights $95M demand at trial over Georgia child’s death

Texas Roadhouse is asking an Atlanta jury to clear it of liability in the death of a Georgia child struck by a driver who minutes earlier had been served a beer.

2h ago