CORNELIA, Ga. — Habersham History’s limited-edition Big Red Apple Centennial Souvenirs have officially been fully claimed.
The nonprofit organization announced this week that all 100 individually numbered souvenirs created to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Cornelia’s iconic Big Red Apple have been spoken for.
The response exceeded expectations.
“We didn’t know if they were going to be this popular, but we certainly hoped they would be,” said Habersham History President Peter Madruga. “I know the Big Red Apple means a lot to people in this community.”
The approximately 7-inch-tall souvenirs were created as a special centennial keepsake honoring the monument’s June 4, 1926 unveiling. Each souvenir was individually numbered as part of a limited run of 100.
Rather than being sold through traditional retail channels, the souvenirs were offered as a thank-you gift to supporters who made a donation of $20 or more to Habersham History, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Habersham County.
Organizers said the strong response reflects the affection many residents have for the landmark.
For generations, the Big Red Apple has served as more than just a monument. Originally built to celebrate Northeast Georgia’s thriving apple industry, it has become one of the region’s most recognizable landmarks and a symbol of community identity. The monument recently celebrated its 100th birthday with a centennial re-unveiling ceremony and the premiere of the documentary The Big Red Apple – A 100-Year Legacy.
Since the souvenirs were fully claimed, Habersham History has received numerous calls, emails and messages from people hoping to obtain one.
While no additional limited-edition, individually numbered centennial souvenirs will be produced, the organization is collecting names from those interested in a possible future non-limited edition release.
“The outpouring of support has been incredibly touching,” Madruga said. “We’re grateful not only for the donations, but for the stories people have shared about what the Big Red Apple means to them and their families.”
Those interested in joining the waiting list may send an email to info@habershamhistory.org and include their name and the quantity they would be interested in obtaining if additional souvenirs become available in the future.
For Habersham History, the success of the project represents more than just the popularity of a commemorative keepsake.
It serves as a reminder that, a century after its unveiling, the Big Red Apple remains one of the most beloved symbols in Northeast Georgia.
