A few weeks ago, I perused Forsyth County, on my way to visit family. My husband and I, both having lived there for about a decade, decided to revisit our old stomping grounds. As we stopped by our favorite spots, I felt the sting of the saying “you can’t go home again”— as so many of our former hangouts had closed. This prompted me to reflect on what made Forsyth County around 2004 special – at least through the lens of nostalgia.

Some of these places exist as is and some have closed, but all added to the color of Cumming, Georgia. Did I miss any stores, activities, events, or experiences? Let me know in the comment section!

1. Psychic Sarah

If you lived in early aughts Forsyth County, you probably remember Psychic Sarah—her storefront, which seemed to double as a house, perched on the side of a hill on Highway 9. Yet, more than the house one likely recalls the striking red hand, which attracted the third eye of those that passed by. 

Psychic Sarah was a local fixture, offering palm and tarot readings to those seeking insight into love, life, and fate. Some openly attest to her powers, while others visted as a means to sate a curiosity, hoping for a glimpse into their future.

But by the mid-2010s, Psychic Sarah’s crystal ball went dark. After zoning issues and modernity’s impact on skepticism, she had to read the signs and close up shop. Though her building now sits empty, the memory of Psychic Sarah—and that iconic red hand—still haunts the memory of longtime residents.

2. Fagan’s Biscuit Barn 

I will never surrender! Fagan’s Biscuit Barn will always be Fagan’s Biscuit Barn to me, and I will die on this hill. I remember countless early mornings, heading to school, stopping at Fagan’s for one of their legendary biscuits. Sure, Fagan’s Biscuit Barn still exists, technically, but now it’s called Feed the Well BBQ & Biscuit Barn. Same biscuits, new name. But stubborn old whippersnappers like me just can’t let go of the past.

To be clear—I’m only thirty, but I’ve been around long enough to know what’s worth hanging onto. 

3. Kemp Road

When I first settled in Glencree off of Old Atlanta, places like Kemp Road still existed as an oasis–a meandering country lane, sprigged with curtains of wisteria, wild violet henbit, and old farms. 

Located in Forsyth County, Kemp Road was a quiet, winding road that showcased the rural charm of the area. The road cut (and may still cut) through scenic countryside, offering glimpses of pasture. It’s a spot where you would occasionally pass a tractor, or see locals enjoying the laid-back, slower pace of life that Forsyth County used to be known for, despite encroaching gentrification into the area-even back in the early aughts.

4. The Foster House

The Foster House in Cumming, Georgia, was a cherished local restaurant housed in a historic home that dated back to 1887.This Gilded Age-era house, with its painstakingly preserved architecture, had long rested like an elegant matron on its hill,  shaded by a parasol of leaves from the towering oaks that protected her through long, hot summer evenings.  Known for its Southern-style cuisine, The Foster House offered comfort food with southern sides making it a go-to spot for family gatherings, brunches, and special occasions. No doubt, if you lived in FOCO in the early aughts, you enjoyed at least one meal at the Foster House.

Unfortunately, the owners of The Foster House closed its doors in 2021 after many years of serving the community. The pandemic took a toll on the business, and they decided to retire rather than continue operations. Since my last visit to Cumming, Georgia, I have not seen a resurrection of the property. 

At 17, I had the  opportunity of being published after winning a contest with a now-closed publishing company. The Foster House graciously allowed me to host a book signing on their property, even putting my name on their marquee. I look back on their kindness fondly and hope to pass this honor forward to another aspiring writer one day.

5. Humpus Bumpus

 

A whimsical, delightfully cluttered yet organized and cozy space, with just a touch of elegance, nestled in an unremarkable, cracked parking lot, housed the most thorough philosophy section I have ever seen. To date.

It was the scene of many Sunday afternoons with my now husband and friends. Sadly, this pleasant bookstore closed its doors in 2020, due to gentrification and the consequences of increased availability of digital books. Like so many bookstores, it couldn’t withstand the tidal wave of competition from online giants like Amazon, leading the owners to permanently close the store. I am still crying about this. To date. 

6.The Fur Bus

As a student at Riverwatch Middle School and before that at Sharon Elementary, I remember how the number one draw for selling magazines and overpriced catalog items to my neighbors was an afternoon on The Fur Bus. Not only could I skip math class, but I also got to ride on the Fur Bus. Honestly, the name speaks for itself: it’s a bus covered in fur. The Fur Bus.

7. Buford Highway Construction

This hasn’t changed at all and remains a facet of local life. Honestly, this is just a rant. Every time I visit my family in Cumming, I sit in at least an hour of traffic if it’s between 4 PM to 7 PM or any day that ends in “y.” This has been a problem since I moved to Forsyth in 2004. I’m stuck in traffic right now as I write this article. Someone please, send help. 

8. Backyard Burgers – Also, that building 

Backyard Burgers in Forsyth County served some of the most delicious burgers you could imagine, especially after a long day on the lake. Unfortunately, despite their tasty offerings, the restaurant closed its doors, and I can’t help but wonder if Psychic Sarah cursed the building or something. That place has reinvented itself more often than Madonna.

Why does this location seem to struggle? Anyone know?

9. The Avenues 

When I was younger, the world felt better because, in my youth, The Collection was called the Avenues—an infinitely superior name. The Avenues captured a sense of fun that perfectly matched its open-air design and upscale shops. However, the name changed as part of a broader rebranding effort aimed at modernizing the shopping experience and appealing to a wider audience – or something like that.

Despite the changes, the place remains overtaken by loud, annoying teenagers—of which I was once one—prowling those same streets. But I’m old now, so I get to join in with all the other fist shakers: kids these days!

10. Parsons Gifts

Even in 2004, Parsons Gifts served as a beloved staple during the holiday season, offering a magical experience that many families cherished as part of their Christmas traditions. The store welcomed visitors with hospitality, serving samples of apple cider, cookies, and other delightful snacks and baked goods.

As guests perused the Christmas village, the enchanting displays sparkled with lights and decorations, transforming the space into a wonderland that captivated the hearts of both children and adults. For many, it represented a genuine treat that signified the arrival of the festive season.

I fondly remember visiting the Thomas Kinkade museum inside, where I crafted stories about the paintings, dreaming of the day I could afford to buy my own original. The memories created there held a special place in my heart, making it all the more heartbreaking when Parsons closed its doors – at least in it’s original location at Lakeland Plaza. Indeed, until I wrote this article, I thought they were permenantly closed. However, they re-opened at The Collection and Peachtree Industrial Blvd. While it has changed locations, they still provide high quality items like Brighton brand charm bracelets. I can’t wait to introduce a new generation to the thrill of a Parsons Gifts Christmas shopping spree, as I introduce my daughter to my favorite childhood store.

11. Norman’s Landing

Apparently, there was a Norman in Norman’s Landing. Bill Norman owned this beloved restaurant, opening it in 1995. When this place closed, it felt like the death of a mayor or a cherished councilman. Forsyth Facebook groups flooded with goodbyes to the fish restaurant that served up delicious seafood and  hospitality near the Avenues on Exit 13. The loss resonated deeply within the community, as many fondly remembered the special moments spent enjoying meals and the welcoming atmosphere that Norman’s Landing provided. 

12. The Dilapitated “Trap house” on Pilgrim Mill

Does anyone else remember a really creepy shack near Exit 16? I think it disappeared and I have a feeling there’s a story there. The tales I heard about that place were wild and suggested that the sale and distribution of drugs occured on the premises. If anyone knows what happened, please share in the comments. Inquiring minds would like to know. 

13. The Seagulls in Lakeland Plaza

I visited Lakeland Plaza about three weeks ago, reminiscing about the old stomping grounds. As a young adult, I spent countless afternoons sitting in the parking lot with my friends, tossing McDonald’s french fries at the local seagulls, charmed by their choice to gather there for reasons that still elude me. Unless it’s illegal to feed the local seagulls, in which case, I did not do that thing. I’ve heard that gentrification has pushed out many locals in Forsyth County, but I never imagined it would affect the flying rats we call birds. 

Honorable Mention to The Heavenly Dove!

In conclusion, things come and go, cherished buildings dilapidate, and memories fade away, but Buford Highway traffic remains the same.