West Point on the Chattahoochee: How It All Began
On Sunday, July 26, at 3:00 pm EDT, the Chattahoochee Valley Historical Society will present its summer quarterly program on the development of the city of West Point along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. The outdoor public gathering will be held at the large covered pavilion that is located next to West Point City Hall and, appropriately enough, alongside the river.
Henry Jacobs, Middle Chattahoochee Director for the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper(CRK), will discuss the natural history of the river, particularly the benefits and challenges of the Fall Line geography that defines West Point and the Greater Valley Area. Jacobs will also examine the most significant tributaries in our region, including Oseligee Creek, Tanyard Creek, Moore’s Creek, and Osanippa Creek, and talk about recent efforts by CRK to address issues concerning the health of the local watershed including sediment erosion and the proposed removal of Langdale and Riverview Dams.
CVHS President Malinda Powers will provide additional commentary about the history of settlement at this western-most point of the Chattahoochee. Originally, these lands were settled by the Creek Indians, who were still living on the west bank at the time Troup County was organized in the 1820’s. Powers will address the influence of the Chattahoochee River on the early development of the city and examine the effects of major flooding in the 19th and 20th centuries.
“As always, our public programs are free. The general public is invited to enjoy Henry Jacobs presentation. One of our Society’s publications contains a wonderful history of West Point that was written in 1876 and delivered on the occasion of the nation’s centennial celebration. We will have copies of Proudest Inheritance for sale at our program for $10 each,” says Powers. “We encourage those interested in local history to attend. For more information about our organization, go to www.cvhistoricalsociety.org.”
