🏛️ Places in the U.S. named for Forsyths
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fORSYTH PARK, SAVANNAH ga WITH “lIL mATT”
Probably the most places named Forsyth were named for John Forsyth (1780–1841)
John Forsyth was one of the most influential American statesmen of his era. His long career included serving as U.S. Minister to Spain, Congressman, Senator, Governor of Georgia, and finally the 13th U.S. Secretary of State under Presidents Jackson and Van Buren.
His name appears across the American landscape, especially in the South and Midwest.
Among these are:
*Forsyth County, Georgia : Created in 1832, the county was named in honor of John Forsyth, then Governor of Georgia and later U.S. Secretary of State.
*City of Forsyth, Georgia (Monroe County): Incorporated in 1823 and named for John Forsyth during his rise to national prominence. It remains the county seat of Monroe County.
*Forsyth Park – Savannah, Georgia: One of the most iconic and most photographed parks in the American South. The park’s expansion was supported by land donated through the influence of John Forsyth, and the city named the grounds in his honor. (see picture above)
*Forsyth, Missouri (Taney County):This city—also a county seat—Early Missouri leaders chose his name in recognition of his role in national politics.
However, not all places named Forsyth were to honor John Forsyth. Other places include:
*Forsyth County, North Carolina: Named for Col. Benjamin Forsyth (c. 1760–1814), a hero of the War of 1812.
He is not a direct relation to John Forsyth of Georgia.
*Forsyth, Montana: Named for Gen. James William Forsyth (1836–1906), a U.S. Army officer best known for his role in the Indian Wars.
Again, unrelated to Governor John Forsyth.
*Forsyth Township, Michigan: Named for O. F. Forsyth, an agent of a mining company, not for the Georgia statesman.
*Forsyth, Illinois: Named after Colonel Robert Forsyth, who was the first general freight agent for the Illinois Central Railroad. The village was established around 1854 when the railroad came to Macon County, and it was named in his honor.
Our Wikitree: Forsyth History page includes a full list of places named for Forsyths, along with biographies, sources, and historical notes. https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Forsythe_Family_History
Maybe a future story will be about places around the world named Forsyth. Let us know if you can add to our list.
If you’re a Forsyth descendant—or curious if you might be—consider joining the Clan Forsyth Society USA to explore your heritage!