The TN State Capitol Commission met today and rightfully voted to move Nathan Bedford Forrest from the State Capitol to the State Museum. However, they also pulled the bust of Admiral David Farragut, the Union Navy Admiral from West Knox County that the Town of Farragut is named for, They also voted to remove the bust of Admiral Albert Gleaves.
When Governor Bill Lee remarked on the removal, his press release was only about Forrest. So, I want to know what Farragut and Gleaves did to get pulled.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued the following statement regarding the Nathan Bedford Forrest bust:
“I commend members of the State Capitol Commission for taking up the Nathan Bedford Forrest bust issue and arriving at a thoughtful resolution that provides important historical context for the bust at the State Museum. Scripture implores us to live in peaceful unity and I believe today’s actions reflect this and our commitment to remembering all parts of our past.” – Gov. Lee
Thanks to Hubert Smith for pointing it out on his Facebook page that the private citizen from East Tennessee is Knoxville Radio Talk Show Host Hallerin Hill. Hill and the rest of then committee needs to explain why the Capitol Committee removed Farragut, Gleaves with Forrest.
I do recall back during the legislative session, there was committee or floor debate and it was pointed out that Forrest and Farragut and they have mentioned Gleaves were the three busts in the Capitol that were not elected to statewide office. However, Farragut was a Union Navy Admiral and to be taken out with Forrest, taints his work and life, in my opinion.
Here are the members
Butch Eley (SCC Chairman)
Vacant – TN Historical Commission
Admiral David Farragut’s most famous quote
I agree. Why Farragut and Gleaves? No indication of discussion yet on today’s Hallerin Hill show.
Shamefully deficient knowledge of history and this TN and United States Navy hero. AND CSA General Forrest’s demand for surrender of Ft Pillow was rejected by the US Commander, Major Booth, hoping for rescue by approaching Union gunboats. Forrest then assaulted the fort, and the fighting continued until a Confederate lowered the US Flag. US soldiers, white and black retreated down the slope toward the Mississippi River. Casualties were high, but it was a fight, not a massacre. ALL wounded were treated while Forrest, under a flag of truce, transferred them to the gunboats for care. This is from contemporary Union and Confederate reports (Battles and Leaders of The Civil War). Even General US Grant praised Forrest. Both Tennesseans, Farragut and Forrest were outstanding, aggressive warriors. Ignorant politicians, destroying history, should be VOTED OUT NOW!
Every person on that committee should be censured and removed. They are an embarrassment to the state.