Savannah Schools Transfer Historic Sculptures for Restoration
Two century-old sculptures depicting Greek figures moved to Savannah Technical College for student repair work.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Secondary Education
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The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System has transferred two historic sculptures to Savannah Technical College for restoration. These figures, depicting Demeter and Athena, will be repaired by students in the Historic Preservation Program.
Why it matters
The project offers students a unique training opportunity to work directly on century-old artifacts while preparing the pieces for future public viewing. This transfer preserves local history that had been held in storage for over a century.
The two sculptures, created by John Walz, were held in the attic of the Central Office Building at 208 Bull Street for 125 years. Following the repair process, the pieces will be displayed at Massie's Historic Preservation Gallery.
The players
Savannah-Chatham County Public School System
This is the primary public education institution serving the Savannah, Georgia area and the entity that managed the storage of the artifacts.
Savannah Technical College
This educational institution hosts the Historic Preservation Program where students learn specialized skills in building and artifact restoration.
John Walz
He is the sculptor who created the maquettes of Demeter and Athena that were intended for larger public monuments on Oglethorpe Street.
The details
Specialty Moving Co. transported the fragile maquettes, which were originally created by sculptor John Walz, from the school district's central office. The figures are expected to be put on public display at Massie's Historic Preservation Gallery once the preservation project concludes.
Timeline
The sculptures were placed in storage at the school district building in 1901.
The statues were transported to the college on October 29, 2026.
Culture Shift
This transfer marks a transition from administrative storage to active community engagement with local heritage. It reflects a growing institutional focus on using historical assets for hands-on educational development rather than keeping them hidden from the public.
Local residents can look forward to viewing these restored artifacts at Massie's Historic Preservation Gallery once the project is complete. This initiative provides a new way for the public to interact with significant pieces of the city's artistic history.
The takeaway
This project highlights the value of repurposing historical items for modern educational needs. By allowing students to lead the restoration, the community ensures that these artifacts gain new life while providing practical experience for the next generation of preservationists.
Further reading
For more on how local students engage with community preservation, visit Secondary Education.
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Do you believe local institutions should prioritize the restoration and public display of historical artifacts?
