Historic Savannah to Unveil Monument Honoring Seven Ladies of Preservation Movement

Historic Savannah to Honor the “Seven Ladies” with New Monument

The charming city of Savannah, known for its rich history and stunning architecture, is soon to welcome a new addition to one of its beautiful squares. Right in the heart of Savannah’s preservation efforts, Columbia Square will soon feature a monument dedicated to the “Seven Ladies,” a group of remarkable women who played a pivotal role in the city’s preservation movement. This exciting news was wrapped up with a final approval from the Savannah City Council just last Friday!

Who Were the Seven Ladies?

The Seven Ladies—Katharine Judkins Clark, Elinor Adler Dillard, Anna Colquitt Hunter, Lucy Barrow McIntire, Dorothy Ripley Roebling, Nola McEvoy Roos, and Jane Adair Wright—were true trailblazers. Back in 1955, these determined women rallied to save the iconic Davenport House from being demolished. Their efforts not only saved this historical treasure but also sparked a movement that led to the preservation of many other historic structures around Savannah. This courageous act set the foundation for the Historic Savannah Foundation and inspired countless others to appreciate and protect the city’s architectural heritage.

About the Monument

The upcoming monument will be a stunning gray granite structure, designed as a “slant marker,” and will measure 30 by 20 inches. When it’s finally revealed, visitors will find silhouettes of the seven remarkable women proudly displayed at the top, along with a bronze plaque detailing their invaluable contributions. It will read:

“These seven ladies are recognized and honored in grateful recognition and lasting appreciation of their heroic effort in 1955 to save the Davenport House from demolition and to inspire the preservation of historic structures in the city of Savannah. Their success in raising the necessary funds to purchase the house provided the catalyst to found Historic Savannah Foundation with a group of like-minded Savannah residents. This proved to be the turning point to limit destruction of the remaining historic structures in the city and to establish basic guidelines for future preservation efforts.”

Location and Unveiling Date

The monument will find a tasteful home in the northern part of Columbia Square, nestled between two benches that face the square’s center. It will have a clear view of the Davenport House, ensuring that its history remains closely tied to the monument. The most heartwarming part? The unveiling is set to happen in the summer of 2025, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the successful campaign to save the Davenport House, making it a truly special moment for the community.

A Celebration of Vision

Lucy Brannen, a descendant of one of the original seven, shared her excitement about the monument, emphasizing that it will be a “meaningful, enduring addition” to Columbia Square. The Historic Savannah Foundation’s CEO and President, Sue Adler, echoed these sentiments, stating that it is a thrill to see the vision of these inspiring leaders celebrated with a permanent monument.

The Journey Towards This Monument

The journey to get this monument started with discussions around renaming Taylor Square, and while the final name chosen honored another local figure, the descendants of the Seven Ladies remained committed to establishing a lasting tribute to their ancestors. Fundraising efforts for the monument totaled $30,000, which were successfully gathered through community support. The marker will be brought to life by Savannah’s own DePue Monument Company.

A Message from City Leaders

Alderman Nick Palumbo remarked during the city council meeting that the movement initiated by these seven women “really took a city and a nation by storm,” highlighting the transformative power of their actions.

As Savannah looks ahead to the unveiling of this unique monument, both residents and visitors will have a new way to remember and appreciate the extraordinary efforts of the Seven Ladies. It will serve not only as a historical marker but also as an inspiration for future generations to embrace and protect the beauty of Savannah’s rich heritage.