Foundation Freedom dedicates, unveils permanent Charters of Freedom monument at Jimmy Carter National Historic Park

PLAINS, Ga. – Now, moving on to Sumter county, Tuesday was a special day as the city celebrated former President Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday with a special unveiling.

The group, Foundation Forward, unveiled a monument known as the 63rd Charters of Freedom in downtown Plains.

The display features metal recreations of important united states documents, such as the declaration of independence, the constitution, and the bill of rights.

We got a chance to speak with a Foundation Forward representative, as well as Gary and Anne Bergenske who helped bring this new monument to life.

“Anne and I had the honor and privilege to know President Carter and Rosalynn Carter for a number of years. We worked on some projects together. And, as time went on, we had a great relationship. And, then I met these folks through this foundation forward through some friends, and found out that they do these and that they were trying to place one in each state,” said Gary Bergenske, Plains resident.

“We are so honored to be part of this birthday celebration. And, we actually moved up the timeline for the construction on this project just to be able to dedicate it today. And, we’re very glad that the town asked us to do that so that they could include us in the celebration,” said Mike Unruh, Communications Manager, Foundation Forward.

Foundation Forward says their short term goal is to have one Charters of Freedom monument in every state by the country’s 250th anniversary, in 2026…

Brian Roche reporting.

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