Literary Lessons in Tattnall Square Park
Disposing of trash in this downtown green space in Macon, Georgia (a member of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities), gives back in wise ways
Macon-Bibb, Georgia, was the first community to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities when the program launched in April 2012.
Photos by Melissa Stanton, AARP
Click on the image to learn about Macon-Bibb's age-friendly initiative.
Among the community efforts assisted by membership in the network and working with AARP Georgia was the revitalization of Tattnall Square Park, a 16-acre green space in downtown Macon. Established in the mid-19th century, both Macon and Tattnall Square Park fell into decline during the 1970s and 1980s. (Learn more by reading "Restoring, Reinventing Tattnall Square Park.")
An interesting aspect of the park's restoration was its use of the space to promote literacy. Inspiring messages are engraved into the stones surrounding an historic fountain. Quotes from literature, poetry and local students adorn plaques attached to the trash receptacles.
Scroll down for a sampling of scenes and poetic "statements" from Tattnall Square Park.
Take a Tour of Tattnall Square Park
A visitor presents the park's Little Free Library.
"I speak for the trees! Let them grow! Let them grow!" — Dr. Seuss, author
"When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe." — John Muir, naturalist
"Earth's crammed with heaven, And every common bush afire with God: But only he who sees, takes off his shoes." — Elizabeth Barrett Browning, 19th century poet
"Lord make us mindful of the little things that grow and blossom in these days to make the world beautiful for us." — W.E.B Du Bois, educator and civil rights activist
"... to begin the practice of love we must slow down and be still enough to bear witness in the present moment." — Bell Hooks, author and social activist
"Forget your fretful planning. Live now instead." — Adrienne Bond, author, poet, educator and Macon County native
"Trees are Earth's oldest guardians. We need to show some respect to trees." — Ivory Smith, 5th Grader, Alexander II Magnet School
"Trees bring color to the sky." — Caleigh D. Adkins, 5th Grader, Alexander II Magnet School
Tattnall Square Park at dusk.
Published September 2020
Stay Informed
The weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities e-Newsletter provides local leaders with information and inspiration for making their town, city or neighborhood more livable for older adults and people of all ages. Subscribe today!
AARP.org/Livable
Enter a topic, name, place, etc.
See past issues: Visit our newsletter archive »
Our Free Publications!
See the complete list at AARP.org/LivableLibrary
