Memorial Garden Dedicated To Longtime Cherokee History Advocate

CANTON, GA — The Cherokee County Historical Society and the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting May 13 for the Judson W. Roberts Memorial Garden at the Historic Rock Barn.

Roberts was a past president of the Cherokee County Historical Society and a champion for the preservation of the Rock Barn after it had fallen in disrepair. He and other members led a successful capital campaign to rehabilitate the Canton landmark, which is now the Society’s special events facility. Since he was a passionate Southern gardener, his family and the Society’s Board of Directors felt that this garden filled with azaleas, gardenias and magnolias was a fitting tribute to his memory.

More than 50 people attended the occasion, including community leaders and members of Judson’s family. The Historical Society is proud to have this addition to the Rock Barn and extend our appreciation to all those who helped with its design and construction. The garden will allow both indoor and outdoor event space that can be used for weddings and special events.

Roberts, of Ball Ground, passed away May 29, 2016 at the age of 60 after a three year battle with lymphoma.

A native of Cherokee County, he was honored by the Cherokee County Historical Society for his efforts to restore the historic Rock Barn in Canton. He was instrumental in raising funds to restore the Rock Barn, which serves as the flagship event facility of the Cherokee County Historical Society, spearheading the $500,000 campaign.

For his endeavors, Roberts was designated the first recipient of the established Judson W. Roberts Lifetime Service Award. He also secured funding from the National Endowment of the Arts to establish the first paid staff member for the CCHS and served on its Board of Directors for more than 10 years.

For more information, contact the Historical Society at 770-345-3288 or visit www.rockbarn.org.