The statue prominently displayed atop the Mall of Georgia is of Button Gwinnett.
The Figure Behind the Statue: Button Gwinnett
Button Gwinnett holds a significant place in American history, particularly for the state of Georgia. His likeness on top of the Mall of Georgia serves as a tribute to his contributions during the foundational period of the United States.
Who Was Button Gwinnett?
Button Gwinnett (1735 – 1777) was a key figure in the American Revolution. He was:
- A Signer of the Declaration of Independence: Gwinnett was one of Georgia's three representatives who signed the United States Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This document formally declared the American colonies' independence from Great Britain.
- A Prominent Georgian: Before the Revolution, Gwinnett had established himself as a merchant and planter in Georgia. His political career escalated rapidly during the revolutionary period.
- Governor of Georgia: He served briefly as the Provisional President (effectively governor) of Georgia in 1777.
Connection to Gwinnett County
The location of the Mall of Georgia is in Gwinnett County, which is directly named in honor of Button Gwinnett. This naming underscores his historical importance to the region and the state. His statue atop the mall reinforces this local historical connection, serving as a landmark that subtly educates visitors about one of the nation's founding fathers and the namesake of the county they are in.
The statue acts as a visual representation of the county's heritage, linking a modern commercial hub with the deep historical roots of the area.
