01/10/2024
What's in a name? that the origin of the name 'Kennesaw' and it's application to our favorite mountain has some interesting history? One theory is that it is named after an indigenous person local to the Cobb County area... In an 1849 edition of the Charleston Courier, an article introduces 'The Legend of Kenesaw'. The article begins "The lofty Kenesaw, a double peaked mountain, in Cobb County, GA, takes its name from an Indian chief, who bore that application.."
Another source suggests that perhaps it's a rough translation of 'Gah-Nee-Sah' from the Cherokee language, meaning 'burial place', 'cemetery' , or 'sacred place'. This explanation resonates with many of us today for many reasons. Kennesaw Mountain has been a truly sacred place of peace and reflection for many generations. However, this place was also a major battlefield of the Atlanta Campaign, with an estimated 5,300 casualties between June 19th and July 2nd, 1864. The concept of burial place, or cemetery fits just as well.
Whatever the origin or translation, Kennesaw Mountain is and will continue to be a vital landmark to local and national history. What's your favorite Kennesaw Mountain story?
Image Description: An artist's rendering of two mountains (big and little Kennesaw) behind the picturesque town of Marietta, GA.
Image Credit: Horace Rawdon, Jr., 105th Ohio Infantry
