Marietta’s Root House Event

Originally published October 2017 · p. 26

Neil Bray stands on guard duty on the front porch of the William Root house.

MARIETTA, Ga.—William Root House Event was on July 8. The SVR, SUVCW, Department of Georgia & S.C., Confederate Sons and the 30th Ohio (Recreated), went to the aid of the Cobb County Landmark Association. The event was not only to raise some cash to preserve the Root House built in 1845, but, to increase the public attendance, on not only the day of the event, but in the future. The Confederate defenses at Kennesaw Mountain has just fallen; Gen. Joseph E. Johnston is retreating south toward Atlanta, with Gen. William T. Sherman falling on his rear guard. Major General George (Eric Peterson) Henry Thomas has just entered Marietta and decided to make the Root House his headquarters. During the day, Confederate soldiers were brought to headquarters under guard, as they were discharged from the Confederate hospital in Marietta. They needed to see a staff officer, for passes to return home to recover. Local Marietta families came with their children see Gen. Thomas. Some were loyal American citizens, requesting a guard be placed on their homes. Others were not and demanded that Gen. Thomas end the city being under military martial law. The Cobb County Landmark Association was overjoyed, with the major jump in attendance. The Executive Director said they brought in more money at this event than any other event this year. They added they would like to have a lasting relationship, with the SRV, SUVCW, SCVCW and the 30th Ohio.

Tim Knight was one of the guards for the event.