EDITOR:

A recent proposal for new construction has alarmed many in the historic preservation community. A citizen is suing the city of Sandy Springs for the right to build a home on the acre of land that is known as Heard Family Cemetery.

By now, it has become common knowledge that John Heard Sr. was a corporal in the 9th Battalion of Georgia Artillery and later a Fulton County judge. In addition to this, the Georgia Historic Commission designated the location of the Heard Family Cemetery a War Between the States significant site in 1954. This is largely because the Union Army passed through that very spot in July 1864.

In 1900, Judge Heard filed a deed with Fulton County making his wishes known to forever make this acre of land a private cemetery. The fact that someone wishes to desecrate the center of this cemetery is very disturbing. These pillars of the community have a right to rest as they lay.

With that being said, the Sons of Confederate Veterans opposes the construction of a domicile at the Heard Family Cemetery in Sandy Springs. We will continue to support the city of Sandy Springs in its efforts to secure a peaceful resting place for John Heard and his family.

Jon Holland

Commander, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Milton Guards Camp No. 2214, Alpharetta