Q: I have relocated but used to live in Austell and would go to the spa at the Threadmill Mall Complex. I am interested in the history of the complex and its current state. Can you provide me with this information?
A: The Threadmill Complex began as a spinning mill plant owned by the Clark Thread Co. in 1931 in Austell, according to www.waymarking.com.
The Clarkdale Mill was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.
The historic marker states that the mill gave a boost to the economy during the depression with the creation of approximately 650 new jobs.
The company merged with J&P Coats in 1952, forming Coats & Clark. The strength of the American dollar against the Japanese yen in the early ’80s made the purchase of the imported thread less costly than locally producing it, leading to the mill’s closure in 1983.
The plant was renovated into a retail mall in 1996, expecting to pump millions into the south Cobb County economy, according to bizjournals.com. It fell short of the vision and closed.
The sign at the entrance states Austell purchased the threadmill in July 2001. The complex was restored and renovated for government offices and private businesses.
“I was thinking about how in many cases rich, meaningful history such as the threadmill is torn down and destroyed only to have regrets after,” said Austell Mayor Ollie Clemons in an email to the AJC. “That has been our intent with developers to see how they can help us as we grow to keep our history and small-town feel.”
Threadmill Complex has recently undergone an external facelift: new landscaping, water fountains, entre sign and most of the front windows were bricked in, according to Clemons.
The entrance has a relaxed atmosphere, mimicking an outdoor square with stacked-stone fountains, lamp-post lighting and seating.
The plank floors inside are original and made from Canadian Maple, Clemons added.
As you enter the 230,000-square-foot complex, the city’s museum is on the right. A wealth of history is housed that includes items such as newspaper clippings, photos of influential people, yearbooks, tools and equipment from days gone by.
The majority of the offices are city, county and state government. The Sweetwater Valley branch library is located on the first floor – 3,000 square feet with 15 computers for public use.
Outside of city, private businesses and e-commerce, there is an Ukulele shop, deli, a jeweler, law office, photography, professional counseling, family and community services, hair salon and bridal boutique.
Greif, a manufacturing company, takes the third floor.
“I am happy to have been a part in the renovation that has added and beautified a vital part of Austell’s history. The city is lucky to have been able to acquire, improve and repurpose this complex giving many the opportunity to experience the character and feel from years ago on a daily basis,” he said.
Threadmill Complex is located at 5000 Austell Powder Springs Rd SW, Austell (770) 944-4309.
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