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DeKalb CEO marks 40th anniversary of his book on Athens black history

DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond delivers his annual State of the County address at a luncheon at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia on April 25, 2019. STEVE SCHAEFER / SPECIAL TO THE AJC
DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond delivers his annual State of the County address at a luncheon at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia on April 25, 2019. STEVE SCHAEFER / SPECIAL TO THE AJC
By
Sept 9, 2019

Most people know Michael Thurmond through his role as chief executive of DeKalb County and other high profile government roles. But he also is a historian who wrote a definitive book about how African-Americans helped shape the city of Athens.

Thurmond grew up in Clarke County, the son of a sharecropper. He researched and wrote “A Story Untold: Black Men and Women in Athens History” while attending law school. It was published in 1978.

The Athens Historical Society has re-released the book to celebrate its 40th anniversary. And tonight, DeKalb residents will get a chance to hear from Thurmond about the collection of essays and photos.

Friend of the DeKalb Public Library is hosting a book signing and reception from 7:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The book signing will be held at the Decatur Library branch, 215 Sycamore Street in downtown Decatur.

About the Author

Tia Mitchell is the AJC’s Washington Bureau Chief. In this role, she writes about Georgia’s congressional delegation, campaigns, elections and the impact that decisions made in D.C. have on residents of the Peach State.

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