MLK Marker Unveiled In Decatur Square

DECATUR, GA — A new historical marker is now standing in Decatur Square to commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr. and a chapter of his legacy many may not know happened.

The marker, which sits at the corner of McDonough Street and West Trinity Place across from the former DeKalb County courthouse, was unveiled this weekend and installed by the Georgia Historical Society — just steps away from where the former 30-foot Confederate obelisk stood in the Square for more than 100 years.

It's the culmination of work from a group of Decatur High School students and their Commemorating King campaign. The city of Decatur and the Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights helped sponsor the students' proposal.

“What makes this marker truly special, however, is that it was created by high school students," said W. Todd Groce, president and CEO of the Georgia Historical Society. "Their passion for history and their commitment to telling and interpreting this story is not only inspiring, it will also help shape a better future for this community and our state.”

MLK was sentenced at the site of the marker on Oct. 25, 1960 to four months of hard labor, or "chain gang" sentencing, for protesting segregation with the Atlanta Student Movement, according to the marker. His arrest violated parole conditions after he was previously convicted of driving without a Georgia license — though he had a valid Alabama license.

The harsh sentencing angered civil rights activists and emphasized demands to end racist laws and policies, eventually leading to John and Robert Kennedy intervening and freeing MLK from prison.

“The arrest of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Decatur was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights movement that needs to be publicly recognized and better understood,” Groce said.

A larger ceremony is planned for late October when hopefully more people can safely attend, Decatur Mayor Patti Garrett said.