Savannah Honors Preservationists with New Monument in Columbia Square

Savannah to Celebrate Historic Preservation with New Monument

In a heartwarming display of recognition for the fierce dedication of local preservationists, Savannah City Council has made a significant decision. On Friday afternoon, they officially approved the final phase (Phase 2) of a plan to create a stunning new monument in Columbia Square. This monument will honor seven remarkable women who rallied together to save the historic Isaiah Davenport House.

A Unanimous Approval

The excitement was palpable during the City Council meeting, where council members unanimously voted in favor of honoring these trailblazing women. The new monument will pay tribute to Katharine Judkins Clark, Elinor Adler Dillard, Anna Colquitt Hunter, Lucy Barrow McIntire, Dorothy Ripley Roebling, Nola McEvoy Roos, and Jane Adair Wright. These seven tenacious women came together to raise a total of $22,500 which was pivotal in purchasing the Davenport House, ensuring it would not be turned into a parking lot for a funeral home.

A Legacy of Preservation

Recognizing the urgent need for ongoing preservation efforts in Savannah, the seven women were instrumental in founding the Historic Savannah Foundation back in 1955. Their legacy continues to resonate within the community, and the creation of this monument reflects a growing appreciation for their vital contributions to preserving Savannah’s rich history.

Voices of Gratitude

Lucy Brannen, granddaughter of one of the honorees, Lucy McIntire, expressed heartfelt thanks to Mayor Van Johnson and the Savannah City Council for their support. “We’re incredibly grateful for their backing in creating a lasting tribute to these courageous women who sparked the preservation movement in Savannah, helping to revitalize our city,” she remarked. Brannen voices the hopes that this new monument will bring memories and appreciation to the very spot where the movement began.

Looking to the Future

The monument, set to be crafted by Savannah’s own DePue Monument Company, will be installed in the summer of 2025, right in time for the 70th anniversary of both the saving of the Davenport House and the founding of the Historic Savannah Foundation. It will be located at the edge of the lovely brick paving, between a pair of existing benches in the northern part of Columbia Square.

A Beautiful Reflection

Envisioned to stand as a beautiful part of Columbia Square’s landscape, the monument will feature striking granite along with two bronze plaques. These plaques will include bas relief portraits of each of the seven women. The inscriptions will highlight their achievements and dedication, ensuring that their stories and the impact they had on Savannah’s history won’t fade away.

A Collaborative Effort

Descendants of the seven founders are thrilled about the monument, which came to life through collaborative efforts involving the City of Savannah’s Park and Tree Commission, current staff of the Historic Savannah Foundation, and representatives from DePue Monument Company. The entire planning process has been a true community effort, with a petition for the monument receiving approval from the Savannah-Chatham County Historic Site and Monument Commission back in July 2024.

Mark Your Calendars

The anticipation for the unveiling is building, with more details about the celebration set to be announced. The new monument will not only honor these remarkable women but will also educate future generations about the importance of preserving the unique and storied architecture that defines Savannah. It’s a heartfelt moment in the city’s history, one that stands as a testament to the passion and commitment of Savannah’s residents.