Customer Reviews

A History of Rome and Floyd County, Georgia 1540-1922

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If you're interested in Georgia history, and, especially of course, Rome, Georgia and related genealogy, you'll likely find this book indispensable. The book originally was not copyrighted, and so has been published by a variety of companies over the years. The early editions were not indexed, which was a serious shortcoming, especially for researchers. I have the non-indexed 1969 edition, and I just ordered a new indexed copy from amazon for a relative since we have family covered in the book.

The entire book is written in a relaxed style and documents, believe it or not, a period from 1540 to 1922, when the first edition was published. The earliest entries are about Spanish explorers. Next come U.S. Army battles with Native Americans beginning in 1793. The real history of the City of Rome begins in the book in the 1834 timeframe.

The book is loaded with anecdotes covering probably everything the author could collect about the area, its events, and its personalities. Battey takes every opportunity to connect with national-level events of the era such as the Civil War. For example, he reports the role of a Rome-built engine in what is now known as the "Great Locomotive Chase."

The author was born into a wealthy family and apparently didn't need to work for a living. He was "educated at the University of Georgia and Princeton University." Although he was very widely traveled, he had deep family roots in Rome and undoubtedly drew on family as well as personal connections, which allowed him to write as a true insider.

The lack of a copyright is especially nice for genealogists, who can reproduce and publish segments online at will. The lack of copyright also indicates that Battey wrote the book as a service to his community. All of us who use it as a valuable resource are deeply indebted.

Please note: Amazon has the author's name mixed up. His name is George Magruder Battey, Jr.

Tim Naff