‘Trump Mountain’ proposal ignites backlash over Cherokee history at Sawnee Mountain

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — A Republican lawmaker’s proposal to rename Sawnee Mountain as “Trump Mountain” is drawing criticism from residents and local leaders who say the move would erase Cherokee history and turn a cherished landmark into a political statement.

Sawnee Mountain rises above Forsyth County, offering sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and metro Atlanta. At its summit sit the Indian Seats, natural rock formations shaped over centuries. The mountain is named for Sawnee, a Cherokee chief, and local lore says his spirit still protects the land.

Mary Helen McGruder, whose family donated more than 300 acres to the Trust for Public Land to preserve Sawnee Mountain, said the proposal is insulting.

“It’s a slap in the face to every citizen of the state of Georgia to think one man can decide to change the name of something this iconic,” she said.

Republican state Rep. David Clark introduced the resolution, citing former President Donald Trump and a 2024 campaign town hall held nearby. But the measure has drawn opposition from conservatives in the county, many of whom voted for Trump.

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Republican state Rep. Brent Cox, who represents the district and has Cherokee ancestry, said he supports the president but opposes the name change.

“This mountain’s not Republican or Democrat. It’s our history. Let’s leave our history alone,” Cox said.

Mayor Troy Brumbalow, a lifelong Forsyth County resident, also opposes the proposal, noting the mountain predates modern politics — and even the state itself.

“It’s always been Sawnee Mountain. It needs to stay Sawnee Mountain,” he said.

In a statement, Forsyth County Manager David McKee said county leadership was not consulted about the resolution and would have opposed it if given the chance.

He said the county remains committed to preserving the historical importance of the Sawnee name — honoring Cherokee heritage — and considers it the official name of one of Forsyth County’s most significant natural resources.

In a separate statement, District 1 Commissioner Kerry Hill said she agrees with residents who feel strongly that the name Sawnee Mountain represents the community and should remain in place. Hill said she hopes Clark will reconsider the resolution.

The lawmaker behind the resolution is running for lieutenant governor. Atlanta News First reached out to ask if he’s reconsidering after the backlash, but has not received a response.

Conversations with state and local officials suggest the proposal lacks support in the Georgia state House and in Forsyth County, making a name change unlikely.