LaGrange GA
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Born a slave in 1807, Horace King not only eventually won his freedom, but also wrote himself into history books, building more than 100 covered bridges in Georgia and surrounding states. Upon his death in 1888, his funeral procession made its way around what is now LaFayette Square n LaGrange. Businesses closed, and people of all colors arrived to show their respect. His obituary noted that he had "risen to prominence by force of genius and power." His unmarked grave was discovered again in 1978 and, today, a large granite headstone reminds us of the great man who lay resting—"Horace King, Master Covered Bridge Builder."

Along with his owner John Godwin, King was instrumental in opening up west Georgia and the Flint and Chattahoochee River Valley region to development with the construction of covered bridges. It is said that Godwin once promised King his freedom if he could build a bridge in a given amount of time. King succeeded and Godwin kept his promise. Upon Godwin's death, King erected a marble monument with the inscription: "Erected to the Memory of John Godwin, by his friend and former slave, Horace King." 

After Godwin's death, King carried on the trade and eventually handed down the skills to his sons.

MAP PIN: The map pin above is located in LaGrange where King spent the last years of his life working and living and where he is buried. 

Take this Do-It-Youself Tour of sites in Georgia important to the life and memory of Horace King. CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAP

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