“It exemplifies the dedication and sacrifice that women have made from pioneer days to today through their hard work, dedication and perseverance to create and maintain a common bond that we all have in protecting and promoting our beautiful and majestic part of the world. I sincerely hope that this is just the beginning of similar community projects that raise the consciousness of our citizens and visitors in the fact it demonstrates the unique history and culture we may often take for granted,” Franklin Mayor Jack Horton said. The WHT leadership team raised $600,000 from donors, local government and tourism organizations. The team says its goal continues to “empower and inspire girls and women to forge ahead and follow their dreams for the future.” It took five years. The women prevailed. The WHT’s website invites and encourages visitors and locals to visit the park to “experience their history in a deeper, more personal way giving a greater sense of identity to these women and their contributions to Franklin and Macon County’s heritage.” continued from page 37 The process started with the vision of one person and gradually grew to include the entire community. This project will be a focal point for our town for many years and I believe that some will plan a visit to Franklin for the primary purpose of viewing this inspirational work of art. » Jack Horton, Mayor, Franklin “The process started with the vision of one person and gradually grew to include the entire community. This project will be a focal point for our town for many years and I believe that some will plan a visit to Franklin for the primary purpose of viewing this inspirational work of art,” Horton said. The sculpture was donated to the Town of Franklin as public art by the WHT. Bob Scott is a former Franklin Mayor and former chair of the NC Mayor’s Association. He is a freelance writer, columnist, and photographer. Sowing the Seeds of the Future 38 SOUTHERN CITY Quarter 3 2024
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