The US town where it's the law to own a gun

Kennesaw, Georgia, is a quaint town located in the southern part of the United States, known for its charming atmosphere and a rather unusual law. This law, which dates back to the 1980s, mandates that every household within the city limits must own a firearm and ammunition. The town is filled with the delightful aroma of freshly baked biscuits from local bakeries and the rhythmic sound of trains passing through. Residents often express their gratitude by leaving handwritten thank-you notes in coffee shops, creating a warm and inviting community spirit. However, the gun ownership law is a surprising aspect of Kennesaw that many people may not expect. Mayor Derek Easterling, who has served three terms, explained that the law is not intended to be taken too seriously. He stated, 'It's not like you go around wearing it on your hip like the Wild Wild West. ' The law was established to enhance the safety and security of the town and its residents. It clearly states that every head of household is required to maintain a firearm along with ammunition. There are exceptions for individuals with mental or physical disabilities, those with felony convictions, or those whose religious beliefs conflict with gun ownership. According to Mayor Easterling and other local officials, there have been no prosecutions or arrests for violating this law since it was enacted in 1982. The penalty for non-compliance remains unclear, as no one interviewed by the BBC could provide an answer. Despite this, the mayor emphasized, 'It's not a symbolic law. I'm not into things just for show. ' For many residents, the gun law is a point of pride, reflecting the town's strong connection to gun culture. Others, however, feel embarrassed by it, wishing to move past this chapter in their history. The prevailing belief among the townsfolk is that the law contributes to Kennesaw's safety. Patrons at local pizza places often suggest that criminals should be wary, as they never know if a homeowner is armed. In 2023, Kennesaw Police Department reported no murders, although there were two gun-related suicides. Blake Weatherby, a groundskeeper at the Kennesaw First Baptist Church, has a different perspective on the low crime rate. He believes that it is the attitude of the people in Kennesaw that keeps gun crimes down, rather than the presence of guns themselves. He remarked, 'It doesn't matter if it's a gun or a fork or a fist or a high heel shoe. We protect ourselves and our neighbors. ' Pat Ferris, a city council member who joined in 1984, noted that the law was more of a political statement than a practical measure. Kennesaw became the first city to require gun ownership after Morton Grove, Illinois, banned it, attracting national attention. A New York Times opinion piece from 1982 described Kennesaw officials as 'jovial' about the law's passage, while some critics were less enthusiastic. Over the years, the significance of the law has faded, with many residents unaware of its existence. Blake Weatherby shared that his father instilled in him the belief that owning a gun is essential. He recalls being frightened the first time he fired a weapon. Although he once owned over 20 guns, he has since sold them due to financial difficulties. James Rabun, who works at his family's gun shop, appreciates the law for its positive impact on business. He explained that people buy guns for various reasons, including self-defense and as collectibles. Kennesaw's gun culture extends beyond just shop owners and older men. Cris Welsh, a mother of two teenage daughters, is proud of her gun ownership and enjoys hunting and shooting with her girls. However, she feels embarrassed by the gun law and wishes that outsiders would focus on the town's parks, schools, and community values instead. City council member Madelyn Orochena echoed this sentiment, stating that the law is 'something that people would prefer not to advertise. ' She described it as 'a weird little factoid about our community,' noting that residents often react with either embarrassment or humor when discussing it.