Savannah Honors Female Preservationists with New Monument at Columbia Square

Savannah Unveils Monument to Honor Female Preservationists

In a heartwarming turn of events, the city of Savannah has taken a monumental step toward recognizing the significant contributions of female preservationists in its history. On a sunny Friday afternoon, the Savannah City Council unanimously approved Phase 2 of a plan to install a new monument dedicated to the seven remarkable women who played a pivotal role in saving the historic Isaiah Davenport House.

A Tribute to Bravery and Vision

As the council members gathered in their meeting to discuss the initiative, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. This new monument will honor Katharine Judkins Clark, Elinor Adler Dillard, Anna Colquitt Hunter, Lucy Barrow McIntire, Dorothy Ripley Roebling, Nola McEvoy Roos, and Jane Adair Wright. These inspiring women came together in 1955, raising $22,500 to purchase the Davenport House, which was at risk of being demolished to make way for a funeral home parking lot. It was their passion and tenacity that not only saved this iconic structure but also led to the foundation of the Historic Savannah Foundation.

The Locals’ Dedication Shines Through

The project is a labor of love, with descendants of the preservationists taking the lead. Lucy Brannen, the granddaughter of one of the founding members, expressed her gratitude during the council meeting. “We’re incredibly grateful to Mayor Van Johnson and the Savannah City Council for supporting the plans to install a permanent monument to seven brave women who initiated the preservation movement in Savannah, which helped to revitalize our city,” she said.

Brannen added, “This monument will serve as a meaningful, enduring addition to Columbia Square where the movement began.” It’s clear that sentiments of pride and appreciation resonate deeply among those who understand the impact of these women’s efforts.

Physical Details and Significance

The granite monument will be crafted by local artisans at the DePue Monument Company and is set to be installed in the summer of 2025. This date is particularly significant as it aligns with the 70th anniversary of both the saving of the Davenport House and the founding of the Historic Savannah Foundation. It will be situated at the edge of the charming brick paving in Columbia Square, providing a picturesque setting surrounded by lush landscaping and stunning views of the Davenport House Museum and the HSF headquarters.

The design of the monument is also a meaningful touchpoint, featuring two bronze plaques with bas-relief portraits of each of the seven preservationists. The plaques will not only display their names but will also share a brief account of their heroic efforts to protect the Davenport House. This includes acknowledging the “grateful recognition and lasting appreciation” for their bold initiative back in 1955, which catalyzed future preservation efforts across Savannah.

A Collaborative Effort

The planning and development of this monument have involved a collaborative effort. Representatives from the families of the seven founders worked closely with the City of Savannah’s Park and Tree Commission, modern HSF staff, and members from the DePue Monument Company. Their hard work culminated in the proposal that received the green light from the Savannah-Chatham County Historic Site and Monument Commission back in July 2024.

Looking Forward to Unveiling

As preparations for the monument’s installation continue, excitement is building within the Savannah community. A public unveiling ceremony is planned for the summer of 2025, with further details to be revealed. This initiative not only commemorates the legacy of these extraordinary women but also embodies the spirit of community engagement and appreciation for historic preservation that Savannah is known for.

The new monument is set to be a lasting tribute to those who saved a vital piece of Savannah’s history and a reminder to all residents and visitors of the importance of preserving the cultural heritage of this beautiful city.