Nestled alongside West “G” Street, a marker commemorating the Overmountain Men’s journey to King’s Mountain was able to receive assistance.

Blue Shift members of the Elizabethton Fire Department were able to finalize repairs to the Sycamore Shoals Monument, located near Monument Street on West G, as part of a project with the John Sevier-Sarah Hawkins Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Renovation (DAR).

Property which the monument lies on was deeded to three DAR Chapters back in 1909. The marker was dedicated in 1910 and rededicated in 1931 for repairs.

But as time passed, the need to repair the monument become more evident, according to local DAR Chairman of Historic Preservation Lois Wetzel.

“The Bonnie Kate Chapter, Sycamore Shoals Chapter and John Sevier Chapter built this,” Wetzel said. “Sycamore Shoals Chapter is now defunct. The Bonnie Kate Chapter in Knoxville is still viable and they are helping us with the money to do this project.”

During the planning process, the John Sevier-Sarah Hawkins Chapter — based out of Johnson City — was able to enlist the help of the City of Elizabethton for the project.

“They called and asked if there was anyway the city could get involved,” EFD Lt. Andy Wetzel said. “I talked with the fire chief (Barry Carrier) and he said he didn’t think it would be a problem. That was during the transitional phase for city manager so we had to wait a couple of months. When (Daniel Estes) came in, Chief Carrier spoke with him and they agreed on the project.”

One of the key pieces of the monument is the top block. EFD members were able to lay concrete and place the history piece of the monument during a seamless repair job.

And following a thumbs up from Lt. Wetzel, attendees were able to crack a smile knowing the monument will continue carrying on history for the years to come.

“I think it worked out very well,” he said about the project. “That’s what we want to do. We want to do these types of projects that help the community. That’s what we’re here for. It was a joy to help these ladies and we hope to see this marker go strong for another 100 years.”

Lois added, “This project couldn’t have been done without the fire department. They have been wonderful to work with. We appreciate them so much.”

According to the historical significance of each portion of the monument, the location was where the Treaty of Sycamore Shoals was negotiated, under which Transylvania was acquired from the Cherokees on March 10, 1775.

The bronze top tablet was to honor “the memory of the patriots who on their way to King’s Mountain, under Sevier, Shelby and Campbell, assembled here on Sept. 25, 1780.” The monument also features the sword of the Lord and of Gideon, and recognizes Fort Watauga.

Moving forward, the DAR is looking to schedule a dedication for the monument in September and is encouraging the public to attend. During the previous rededication, thousands made their way to Elizabethton to remember the piece of history.

Visit www.tndar.org/~jseviershawkins/wp/ to learn more about the Johnson City-based DAR and to learn more about upcoming projects from the organization.