Free country? A North Georgia man has been forced to remove a Civil War display from his front yard. Kevin Smith told reporters that he’s really upset after spending three years building a life-size display of a Civil War battle in his yard.
Smith also told reporters the mannequins and Confederate flags have been in his front yard for the last three years and he never intended taking them down. Smith said it’s his way of educating his community.
“Presentation. I tried to put the display around town so tourist can see the history and draw tourism here,” said Smith.
On Thursday, he received a notice from the Housing Authority saying the display “has to go” after complaints. “Complaints that the statues and confederate flag, and they would have to go.”
PHOTO BY: WRCB
WRCB reached out to Housing Authority officials, who refused to comment — citing advice from their attorneys. A spokesperson said the authority is trying to work things out with Mr. Smith.
“I am standing my ground. This is a part of our history. It is to educate so we don’t fight another war.”
Smith said he has no plans to remove the display or leave his home. Based on the notice he was provided, it’s not clear when the display must be removed or what action the Housing Authority plans to take if it is not.
via WRCB
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