Here’s just about everything you need to know about Athens and Norman
Bragging rights between Athens, Ga. and Norman, Okla. don’t just happen on the gridiron.
The Georgia Bulldogs will battle it out with University of Oklahoma in the Rose Bowl on Jan. 1 in Pasadena.
Both cities have a rich history, their fair share of famous native sons and daughters and popular attractions.
We decided to let the two cities go head-to-head – off field. Here’s how they stack up.
Athens:
- Named after the famous city In Greece as a center of learning
- Population: 123,371
- University of Georgia: colors – red and black
- Famous folks from Athens
Actress Kim Basinger
Actress NeNe Leakes
R.E.M.
Widespread Panic
B-52s
- Songs with Georgia in the title:
“Georgia on My Mind”
“The Devil Went Down to Georgia”
“Rainy Night in Georgia”
“Midnight Train to Georgia”
What's there or nearby:
Norman :
- Named after Abner Norman, , the area's initial land surveyor, and was formally incorporated in May 1891.
- Population: 122,180
- University of Oklahoma colors – crimson and cream
- Famous folks from Norman:
Actor James Garner
Singer Vince Gill
Actress and television host Hoda Kotb
- Songs with Oklahoma in the title:
“Okie from Muskogee”
“Lost in Oklahoma”
“Oklahoma Christmas”
“Oklahoma Nights”
- What's there or nearby:
About the Author
Shelia has worked at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for more than 30 years. Previously, she worked at The Lexington Herald-Leader and The Louisville Defender. Her beat is a bit of a mixed bag that includes religion and spirituality, culture and trends, race and aging. She earned degrees from Spelman College and Northwestern University.
