Nestled quietly on Atlanta’s west side, bordered by Howell Mill Road to the east and Defoor Avenue to the south, Underwood Hills is a neighborhood with a story as unique as its tree-lined streets. While not as widely recognized as some of its more bustling neighbors, Underwood Hills has cultivated a special place in Atlanta’s tapestry—grounded in history, blossoming with community, and shaped by a legacy that continues to evolve.
Origins: Roots in the Hills
To trace the beginnings of Underwood Hills, we journey back to the early 20th century, when the area was primarily farmland and rolling woods. The origins of the name “Underwood Hills” are tied to Will S. Underwood, a prominent Atlanta lawyer and developer. In the 1920s, Underwood and his associates purchased a substantial tract of land with the intention of establishing a residential enclave away from the city’s growing commercial core. The gentle slopes and tree-filled landscape inspired the “Hills” part of the name, and thus, the vision for a picturesque suburban oasis was born.
Development commenced in earnest in the late 1920s and 1930s, with the neighborhood’s first homes reflecting popular architectural styles of the time—Craftsman bungalows, Tudor revivals, and cozy cottages. Streets like Harper Street, Marvin Street, and Defoor Avenue were soon lined with these character-filled residences, each one echoing the aspirations of the families who settled there.
The Early Days: Railroads and Industry
The location of Underwood Hills was no accident. Situated near a vital railroad corridor that helped fuel Atlanta’s growth, the neighborhood also found itself adjacent to burgeoning industrial areas along Howell Mill Road. This proximity brought a mix of blue-collar workers, craftsmen, and small-business owners into the fold, weaving a socioeconomic diversity that persists to this day.
Notably, the former Atlantic Steel Company, whose remnants still influence the area’s landscape, played a role in shaping the community. Many local residents either worked at the plant or benefited from the economic ripple effects, creating a strong sense of neighborhood identity and pride.
Milestones in Neighborhood Life
Through the decades, Underwood Hills weathered the tides of change that swept across Atlanta. During the post-World War II boom, newer homes were added, and the community expanded westward toward Ridgeway Avenue and further north to Collier Road. The construction of I-75 in the 1960s—a mixed blessing for many in Atlanta—created a new boundary for the neighborhood but also made commutes into downtown far easier.
While other parts of Atlanta faced rapid commercial development, Underwood Hills managed to retain much of its residential charm. Its small size and relative seclusion helped preserve a quiet, neighborly atmosphere—one reason residents remain so fiercely loyal.
Landmarks and Local Treasures
One of the crown jewels of Underwood Hills is Underwood Hills Park, a true neighborhood sanctuary located at 1845 Harper Street NW. With its wooded trails, playground, tennis courts, and community garden, the park serves as a year-round gathering spot for residents of all ages. The oak and magnolia-shaded green space is often bustling with activity—be it birthday parties, impromptu soccer matches, or the beloved Underwood Hills Neighborhood Association’s annual events.
Another notable feature is the collection of early 20th-century homes that dot the winding streets. Residents take pride in preserving these historic houses, many of which have been lovingly restored to showcase their original craftsmanship. Walking along Defoor Avenue or Ridgeway Avenue offers a living history lesson in Atlanta’s evolving residential architecture.
While Underwood Hills lacks the commercial bustle of nearby areas like West Midtown or Atlantic Station, its close-knit community has fostered beloved local institutions. The proximity to churches like St. Luke Lutheran and the historic Woodson Park Academy provides both spiritual and educational anchors for generations of neighbors.
Evolution Through the Decades
Over time, Underwood Hills has adapted to the city’s changing rhythms. The 1980s and 1990s brought an influx of young professionals and first-time homebuyers, attracted by affordable housing and proximity to major job centers. This wave ushered in new ideas, from community gardening projects to street beautification initiatives.
In recent decades, Underwood Hills has struck a careful balance between honoring its past and welcoming growth. With Atlanta’s west side experiencing renewed interest and investment, the neighborhood has seen renovated homes, small businesses moving in along Howell Mill Road, and a robust neighborhood association working to manage development while preserving green spaces and local character.
What Makes Underwood Hills Special
Ask any longtime resident what makes Underwood Hills unique, and you’ll likely hear about its neighborly spirit. Here, front porch conversations, sidewalk strolls, and block parties are more than traditions—they’re ties that bind a diverse community. The annual Underwood Hills Yard Sale draws crowds from across the city, while informal book clubs and playgroups help newcomers feel instantly at home.
Above all, Underwood Hills is a neighborhood that understands its roots. It values the heritage of its early settlers and the charm of its historic homes, even as it embraces a new generation of families, professionals, and entrepreneurs. The tall trees, winding roads, and tucked-away feel make every walk a reminder of how history and community flourish side by side.
Exploring Underwood Hills Today
Whether you’re taking a peaceful stroll down Marvin Street under the canopy of oaks, joining neighbors for coffee in the park, or tracing the footsteps of those who shaped these hills nearly a century ago, Underwood Hills offers a window into Atlanta’s past and a promise for its future.
So next time you drive down Howell Mill or find yourself on the cusp of West Midtown, take a turn into Underwood Hills. You’ll discover a neighborhood where every corner tells a story—and where a warm welcome is sure to await.