Arts Meets History
In Stone Mountain Village, history isn't just something you read about—it's something you can see, touch, and even hear! From the powerful ringing of the Freedom Bell, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision of equality and justice, to the twisted iron of Sherman's Necktie, recalling the dramatic events of the Civil War, our historic sculptures bring the past to life in unforgettable ways. Each monument tells a unique story, inviting visitors to reflect on the people, events, and defining moments that shaped our community and nation. Take a closer look and discover how art transforms history into something you can experience right here in Stone Mountain Village!
Sherman’s Necktie: When the Railroad Became a Weapon
What happens when an army turns railroad tracks into twisted pieces of iron? You get a “Sherman’s Necktie,” one of the most recognizable symbols of Civil War destruction! During General William Tecumseh Sherman’s 1864 March to the Sea, Union troops systematically destroyed railroad lines to disrupt Confederate transportation and supply routes. But simply pulling up the tracks wasn't enough. Soldiers heated the iron rails and twisted them into nearly impossible shapes, ensuring they couldn't easily be straightened and reused. The resulting twisted rails became known as “Sherman’s Neckties.” Here in Stone Mountain Village, a striking sculpture installed in 2012 brings this dramatic chapter of American history to life. Erected in commemoration of the Civil War Sesquicentennial (150th anniversary) through the efforts of the Committee for Sherman’s Neckties, chaired by Dr. George Coletti, the sculpture offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the tactics that helped shape the course of the Civil War. Stop by, take a closer look, and discover how something as ordinary as a railroad track became an unforgettable piece of history!
Location: Main Street
Let Freedom Ring: The Story of Stone Mountain’s Freedom Bell
Some monuments tell a story, but this one makes its voice heard! Stone Mountain’s massive cast Freedom Bell stands as a powerful symbol of history, remembrance, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. Acquired by the City in 1999 under Mayor Chuck Burriss, Stone Mountain’s first African American mayor, the bell honors Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s unforgettable call to “let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia.” Those words carried particular significance because of the Ku Klux Klan rallies historically held atop Stone Mountain, transforming a place associated with racial hatred into part of Dr. King’s vision of freedom and justice for all. Each year, the Freedom Bell is rung in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, allowing his message to resonate once again throughout the community. More than a historic landmark, the bell is a reminder of where Stone Mountain has been, how far it has come, and the importance of continuing the work toward a more just and inclusive future. When you visit Stone Mountain Village, take a moment to discover this meaningful piece of our history and the powerful message behind its ringing.
Location: Main Street