UGA Students Demonstrate to Save Rutherford Hall

this story was written by Kyle Campbell.

Friday afternoon, the residents of , in conjunction with the Student Historic Preservation Organization, participated in the "This Place Matters" program through the National Trust for Historic Preservation.  

This program is an opportunity to highlight the places in our community that matter to us. We feel that Rutherford is a prime example. In the coming days, Rutherford will be added to the National Trust’s "This Place Matters" map, the first such listing for a site in Athens.

The students created signs and posters that are displayed in the dorms windows. Some signs simply said, "This Place Matters," while many others poignantly said, "Home." The Student Historic Preservation Organization loaned a large banner to the cause while the Rutherford Students painted a large tire, representing the impending demolition equipment, with the "This Place Matters" slogan. The tire will remain on the rear of Rutherford as a silent witness to the historic dorm’s plight.  

Judging by the strong sense of community demonstrated here tonight, it is clear that Rutherford is a place that matters. We hope that the administration will recognize the value of that community and allow Rutherford to matter for generations to come.

 "It was obvious by meeting with the students who live in Rutherford Hall that they consider Rutherford much more than just a temporary place to live,” said Josh Baum, a member of the organizing student group. “ Through the atmosphere in the air and their attitude of camaraderie, you could tell that it is more than a dorm, it’s their home.”