Ninth in the progression of major Greater Atlanta shopping hubs, SOUTH DEKALB MALL was officially dedicated in April 1970. The air-conditioned complex, touted as "a mall for all seasons," initially housed fifty-eight stores and services.
Graphic from Rich's, Incorporated
The mall was added to a freestanding Rich's department store, which had been in operation since August 1969. It was the seventh unit in the chain and consisted of a 3-story structure with such amenities as a Beauty Salon, Magnolia Buffet restaurant and Auto Center.
Drawing from Rich's, Incorporated
The second SOUTH DEKALB anchor, J.C. Penney, opened for business in October 1970. It was a 2-story store; featuring its own Beauty Salon, Coffee Shop and Auto Center. Penney's would anchor the south end of the mall for 31 years.
