SAVANNAH (Jan. 17, 2024) – The City of Savannah will dedicate Taylor Square, formally known as Calhoun Square, on February 10, 2024 with day-long event and sign unveiling.
The community celebration will begin at 11 a.m. with a dedication ceremony that will feature several speakers, musical acts, and clergy. Around noon, City officials and community members will unveil the new Taylor Square sign. The streets around Taylor Square will be closed to vehicle traffic from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
From noon to 2 p.m., a community celebration will be held in the square featuring local musical acts, dancers, as well as educational tables. In the evening, beginning at 6 p.m., there will be a reflection with libations and music.
Last week, in the first meeting of 2024, Savannah City Council approved the installation of a granite marker in Taylor Square which will note that the square was once named for U.S. Vice President John C. Calhoun who was a staunch supporter of slavery and will now be named for Susie King Taylor.
“This will be a momentous day for Savannah and for our nation,” Mayor Van R. Johnson, II said. “For the first time in our 290-year history, we will have a square name honoring a person of color, a woman, and a formerly enslaved person. I am proud of the work that has been done by our community and the Savannah City Council to adequately honor those who have too often been forgotten by history books. We’re excited for the unveiling event. We invite everyone to join us as we continue to make history.”
In November of 2022, the 139th City of Savannah Administration voted to remove the name of John C. Calhoun from the square. Following nearly a year-long process engaging the community, Savannah City Council voted in October of 2023 to rename the square in honor of Susie King Taylor.
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