A piece of Rome’s Cherokee history could soon be marked with a new permanent tribute near Ridge Ferry Park. The Rotary Club of Rome is raising money for the project, which would place a memorial near Chieftains Museum. Organizers hope the site will provide a visible reminder of the Cherokee people who lived in the region before their forced removal from Georgia.
Five possible designs are now under consideration. A final choice is expected before the month ends, with some versions of the project carrying a price tag of more than $120,000.
Rotary has already put $19,050 toward the effort, while supporters have promised another $5,600. The goal is to have funding in place by Labor Day, allowing the project to move forward.
The campaign, known as “But One Summer More,” draws its name from the words of Gen. John E. Wool. In an 1837 letter, Wool used the phrase while warning the Cherokee that their time remaining in Georgia was running out.
Rome has significant connections to Cherokee history. Major Ridge and John Ross were among the prominent Cherokee figures who made their homes in the area. New Echota, the Cherokee Nation’s capital at the time, was also located in Northwest Georgia.
The timing of the memorial project comes as the 200th anniversary of the Cherokee Constitution approaches in 2027.
Contributions are being accepted through the Community Foundation for Greater Rome at cffgr.org. Donors should use the site’s donation link and choose the Rotary “But One Summer More” fund. Contributions are tax deductible.
Those giving $2,500 or more may have their individual or company name included on a recognition plaque at the memorial site.
