Leland: We should value our town’s historic district
A few days ago, when gentle, cooling breezes briefly replaced the intense summer heat, I took a leisurely walk through the campus and marveled at the expansive front campus lawn, intimate gardens and elegant neoclassical buildings that give our campus its extraordinary beauty.
Further out, I caught glimpses of the historic downtown and residential neighborhood that surrounds the campus. Did you know that GC&SU is the only University System of Georgia institution that lies within both a state and national historic district? What this means is that properties in the district are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad pattern of our history and are worthy of preservation for future generations.
Milledgeville, founded as the capital of Georgia in 1803, is one of only two cities in our nation designed as a capital city. The city plan was based on the Cartesian grid and was organized by lots surrounding three squares-Governor’s Square, State House Square, and Penitentiary Square. Later a fourth square was added for public use and became the home of Memory Hill Cemetery.
Today, Georgia Military College is located on the old State House Square, while the main campus of Georgia College & State University occupies the former Penitentiary Square. The Governor’s Mansion, which was not constructed in the Governor’s Square as originally intended, is now one of Georgia College’s prize historic buildings.
The return of students brings fresh vitality as well as challenges to Milledgeville’s historic district. Downtown business booms but area residents suddenly find parking in front of their own homes difficult. They are sometimes awakened late at night by students returning to their residence halls or apartments, forgetful of the fact that their neighbors often must rise early in the morning for work or children’s schooling. Sadly, sometime a yard is trashed or vandalized.
While you are at GC&SU, I encourage you to extend the Georgia College commitment to reason, respect and responsibility to the historic neighborhood that borders and enriches our campus. Treat this neighborhood as a laboratory for learning about the past and as a significant economic asset to the City of Milledgeville. Treat the residents who live there as your friends and neighbors and show respect for their quality of life, property and privacy. Being a good friend or neighbor is not difficult but requires thoughtfulness and consideration.
Good friends and neighbors also have fun together! This year, your Student Government Association, the Office of Campus Life and Activities, and Downtown Milledgeville will be partnering to expand entertainment and recreational opportunities for students. The first major event is planned for Friday, Aug. 19 from 7 to 10 p.m. and will feature bluegrass and rock bands, actors and sidewalk scenes, special sales and promotions, a live remote broadcast, and a preview of the “Tour de Turtle” plastic turtle race down the Oconee River.
I hope to see you there!
Dr. Dorothy Leland
President
Georgia College & State University
Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Aug 12 2005. Filed under Opinion.
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