Cobb County was at one time equally divided between the State of Georgia and the Cherokee Indians. In 1831 a settlement was reached that deeded all the land to the State of Georgia. Shortly after, settlers began drifting into this area and in 1832 a campground, at which members of all denominations could worship, was permanently established. Soon the present site of the City of Smyrna became the center of the social and religious life of the surrounding area. From this campground the Methodist Church was organized in 1838.

Smyrna was first known as Ruffs Siding and later Varners Station. Eventually, the name Smyrna was given to the campground area. The name "Smyrna" is found in the Bible's book of Revelation as the name of one of Paul the Apostle's seven churches in Asia.

The railroad once played a fairly significant role in Smyrna’s development. In 1836 the construction of a railroad began through Cobb County, and by the date of completion in 1842, the railroad had started Smyrna on its change from a frontier village to a growing community. The railroad helped establish the permanent location of the city and provided work for the townspeople. Gristmills and factories were also established in the 1840’s. These mills and factories played a prominent role in the early growth of the community. However, by the close of the 19th century, Smyrna was primarily an agrarian community. While there was industry and the railroad, the economy was by then largely based on agriculture.

The Market Village is the "social center" of Smyrna and sits adjacent to the "Village Green," home to the only city-owned library (Smyrna Public Library) of its kind in Georgia and a thriving and lively community center. The 20th Century Veterans Memorial rests between the Village Green and the Market Village at the intersection of City Hall and the Market Village. Bricks that have come to be called "Smyrna brick" line the walkways and pedestrian avenues of the new downtown.

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