The City of Peachtree Corners honored the life and legacy of Perry P. Nesbit with a commemorative plaque recognizing his lasting contributions to the community earlier this week. On August 25, close friends and members of the Nesbit family came together to honor a man whose influence helped shape the history of Peachtree Corners and the surrounding Norcross area.

Born February 2, 1857, to enslaved parents in the Pinckneyville area of what is now Peachtree Corners, Nesbit grew up during a period of social and economic change following the Civil War. Through hard work, perseverance and business acumen, he went on to become one of the area’s most respected landowners and community leaders.

At approximately 21 years old, Nesbit hired himself out to work on the farm of Squire W.O. Simpson. In exchange for his labor, he received approximately 10 acres of land and five dollars. That property became the foundation of a 150-acre farm known as The Oaks.

Located along what is now Medlock Bridge Road, The Oaks became central to Nesbit’s life and legacy. The property included the family home, farmland, barns and other structures. The Oaks served as a welcoming place for African American families and visitors from Atlanta during an era of racial segregation, providing a space for community and conversation

Nesbit married Lovey McAfee in 1882, and together they raised nine children. Their commitment to education became an important part of the family’s legacy. Their daughter, Clara Nesbit, became a respected educator who spent decades teaching children and adults throughout Georgia. In 1993, Nesbit Elementary School in Gwinnett County was named in her honor.

Nesbit was also deeply involved in his community’s religious life. He was an active member of Central Baptist Church, where he served as chairman of its Board of Deacons for 25 years. He was known locally for his barbecue and sorghum syrup and was remembered for his generosity, dedication, and service.

The plaque adds to previous efforts to recognize Nesbit’s connection to Peachtree Corners. In 2022, the Peachtree Corners City Council approved an honorary street designation, naming a segment of Peachtree Corners Circle between Peachtree Parkway and Medlock Bridge Road Perry P. Nesbit Parkway.

Through the new plaque, the City is helping preserve the story of a man whose journey from being born to enslaved parents to becoming a prominent landowner and community leader represents an important chapter in the history of Peachtree Corners and western Gwinnett County.