The Rome Area Heritage Foundation (RAHF) board of directors voted to increase grant money available to area organizations dedicated to the preservation of history and to increase awareness of the availability of such grants. In addition, efforts will increase to publicize the importance of preserving our shared history and the opportunity to apply for small grants from RAHF. Total funding for qualifying organizations and special projects is $6000.

Protecting its heritage is one indicator of a city that cares about its future. An informed public benefits from understanding the work and vision of previous generations and the story told through their buildings and artifacts. It is toward that goal the members of the Rome Area Heritage Foundation strive to find, identify, and preserve the history contained in the heart pine, oak, bricks, stones, and stories that remain as guides into Rome’s past.

To honor the late Dr. George Pullen the board created the George Pullen History Grant, an annual scholarship in the amount of $500. This grant is available to one student each year studying history at Georgia Highlands College. Additional priority will be given to students who show a keen interest in Rome and Floyd County history. Dr. George Pullen, steadfast member of the Rome Area Heritage Foundation, dedicated his life to the betterment of Rome. He accomplished this mission in multiple ways: As a Professor of History and Chair of the Social Science Division at Georgia Highlands College; Rome City Commissioner for 23 years; downtown business owner; champion for international Rome residents; and supporter of Rome’s downtown.

To receive either grant, students will take part in and complete a research project directly related to the initiatives of the Rome Area Heritage Foundation.

The W. C. Owen Music Research Grant is an annual $500 scholarship available to one student per year pursuing the study of music history at a local college or university. Additional priority will be given to students who show a keen interest in Rome and Floyd County’s rich music history. W.C. Owen's fascination with literature was nurtured from the age of fourteen when he began work in the Atlanta Library, and nurtured in college and municipal libraries including Rome Carnegie and Sarah Hightower Regional Library. Participation in the University of Georgia Men’s Glee Club, entertaining at Junior Service Follies, and singing under 12 choir directors at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church were among the outlets for sharing his considerable talents.

To receive either grant, students will take part in and complete a research project directly related to the initiatives of the Rome Area Heritage Foundation.