Savannah, GA, December 4, 2025 – The Georgia Historical Society (GHS) expanded its Georgia Business History Initiative today with the dedication of a new historical marker recognizing Byrd Cookie Company, a multi-generational Savannah business whose operations have contributed to Georgia’s commercial and community life for more than a century. The dedication took place at Byrd’s Famous Cookies on Waters Avenue with representatives from GHS, Byrd Cookie Company, and community members in attendance.
Since 1924, Byrd Cookie Company has been a cornerstone of Savannah’s business landscape and a beloved local tradition. What began as a neighborhood bakery has grown into a family-run enterprise whose cookies are enjoyed throughout Georgia and across the country.
“We are honored to celebrate the unveiling of the historical marker at our flagship store on Waters Avenue," said Stephanie Lindley, CEO of Byrd Cookie Company. "It’s a meaningful tribute to my great-grandfather’s legacy and to everything we’ve built over the past century. From day one, our mission has been grounded in hospitality and consistency. We’ve stayed true to who we are while continuing to innovate in ways that respect and elevate our heritage. That’s how you make it to 100 years. I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come and of the path we’ve continued to follow, one I know my family would be proud of. We look forward to carrying tradition forward and baking memories well into the next century.”
Located at Byrd’s Famous Cookies on Waters Avenue, the new marker introduces visitors to the company’s early years and its long-standing presence in Savannah. Like other Business History Initiative markers, it recognizes the role Byrd Cookie Company has played in the economic development of our state and nation.
"The Georgia Business History Initiative provides a platform for students of all ages to learn more about the impact and legacy of companies across our state,” said Christy Crisp, Vice President of Education and Programs at the Georgia Historical Society. “It illustrates how local stories connect to the broader picture of American history, and—as with Byrd Cookie Company—how hard work and a multi-generational commitment to innovation and quality can change the economic and cultural landscape of our communities.
Through this initiative, GHS highlights companies whose accomplishments and longevity have helped shape the state’s economic, cultural, and social development. Each year, GHS selects iconic Georgia companies to be recognized through historical markers, public programming, and educational resources that help students, community members, and visitors understand the essential role businesses have played in Georgia’s history.
The marker text reads:
Byrd Cookie Company
Byrd Cookie Company was started by Benjamin Tillman “Pop” Byrd, Sr. in 1924. The bakery was relocated near Pop’s home in Sandfly on Norwood Avenue in 1929. Pop’s son, BT “Cookie” Byrd, Jr., inherited the company in 1949. Opening a new bakery, Cookie began packing the cookies in six-inch decorated metal tins that became synonymous with Byrd’s Famous Cookies. He later opened the “Cookie Shanty,” Byrd’s first retail store, drawing attention from locals and tourists. Cookie’s eldest daughter Kay Byrd Curl and husband Benny Curl took over in 1988, with daughter Stephanie Lindley leading the company’s expansion to its current headquarters on Waters Avenue. Under the leadership of fourth- and fifth-generation family members, Byrd Cookie Company continues to bake cookies over 100 years after its founding, operating five bakeries and twenty stores in five states.
Erected by the Georgia Historical Society and Byrd Cookie Company
For additional details about the Georgia Historical Society, please contact Keith Strigaro, Director of Public Relations and Communications, at 912.651.2125, ext. 153, or by email at kstrigaro@georgiahistory.com.
###
ABOUT THE GEORGIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
The Georgia Historical Society (GHS) is the premier independent statewide institution responsible for collecting, examining, and teaching Georgia and American history. GHS houses the oldest and most distinguished collection of materials related exclusively to Georgia history in the nation.
To learn more visit georgiahistory.com.
ABOUT THE GEORGIA HISTORICAL MARKER PROGRAM
The Georgia Historical Marker Program is an important part of the Georgia Historical Society’s (GHS) statewide educational mission. Through a public-private partnership with the State of Georgia, GHS is responsible for erecting new historical markers and maintaining more than 2,000 markers installed by the State prior to the program’s privatization in 1998. Online mapping tools allow users to explore themed marker trails and design custom driving routes. Visit georgiahistory.com for more ways to use Georgia’s historical markers and experience history where it happened.