Unveiling Cairo's Hidden Gems

Asset Mapping in Cairo, Georgia, using Asset-Based Community Development

Overview

Vision Statement

In a rapidly changing world, the City of Cairo stands as a testament to the power of community assets and the potential they hold for sustainable economic and community development. We envision a Cairo where residents, community leaders, and officials collaboratively engage with one another to make informed decisions that champion sustainable growth and an enhanced quality of life.

Purpose

Our vision is to illuminate Cairo's rich tapestry of assets, weaving together its history, culture, and natural beauty into an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap. This tool seeks not just to display but to foster a deeper understanding of Cairo's resources and their interconnected potential.

By showcasing Cairo's unique assets—be they historical, cultural, or environmental—we aim to contribute to their pride, promote community involvement, and pave the way for a harmonious future that respects both the legacy and aspirations of its people.


About the Project

This project was developed by graduate students in the Urban and Regional Planning Program at Florida State University with the coordination of the City of Cairo's Tourism Director, Shelly Searcy. A requirement for graduate students in the Urban and Regional Planning Program at Florida State University is to complete a capstone project.

City of Cairo (Left) and Department of Urban and Regional Planning at Florida State (Right)

This Multi-Student Professional Project aims to enhance our personal understanding of planning in rural environments by engaging with the community and asset mapping in the City of Cairo, Georgia. The project seeks to create a comprehensive Community Asset Map encompassing tangible and intangible resources that the city possesses. The rationale behind the project is the belief that all communities, regardless of size, possess unique assets that can contribute to their development. The objective is to facilitate informed decision-making for Cairo's future by identifying, mapping, and leveraging these assets.  

Zoning Map for the City of Cairo

The project identifies three primary themes for asset mapping in Cairo: History, Arts and Culture, and Nature and the Environment. By identifying and showcasing Cairo's unique assets across historical, cultural, and natural dimensions, the project aims to provide valuable resources for community decision-making and future growth. The integration of economic, cultural, and environmental considerations aligns with the city's goals for sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for its residents. 

Nature and Environment

Arts and Culture

History

Recreational Opportunities: Natural spaces offer venues for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, or simply providing serene spots for relaxation.

Community Identity: Celebrating local arts and culture fosters a sense of belonging and pride among residents.

Heritage Preservation: Preserving historical sites and stories maintains a connection to a community's roots and traditions.

Health and Wellness: Access to nature promotes physical and mental well-being, contributing to a healthier community.

Tourism and Revenue: Cultural events, galleries, and performances attract tourists, boosting the local economy through increased visitor spending.

Education and Learning: Historical landmarks and museums serve as educational resources, enlightening both locals and visitors about the area's past.

Tourism and Economic Impact: Scenic landscapes and natural attractions draw tourists, supporting local businesses and the tourism industry.

Creative Economy: Artistic endeavors can stimulate creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship within a community.

Tourism and Cultural Exchange: Historical sites and attractions draw tourists interested in learning about a place's unique history and cultural heritage.

How these Asset Themes contribute to Community and Economic Development

Collaborating with the Cairo community, the project involves surveys, interviews, and site visits to gather data on available resources. The assets encompass various types such as natural, cultural, social, human, political, financial, and physical capital. The gathered information not only highlights these assets but also explores their interconnectedness and potential for positive change. The culmination of these efforts is the creation of an interactive ArcGIS StoryMap, a user-friendly tool displaying Cairo's assets, aiding city officials, community leaders, and residents in making informed decisions about the city's growth.  


Cairo's Story

Throughout its history, Cairo faced the challenges of economic changes, racial tensions, and the efforts of a community striving for progress and unity. Today, the city continues to evolve while honoring its past as a testament to its resilience and endurance.

The City of Cairo, circa 1890s, from the Grady County History Museum and Cultural Center

A Brief History and Timeline

Early 1800s

Henry Miller moves to what was then Thomas County, establishing Miller’s Station as a stagecoach stop between Thomasville and Bainbridge. William Hawthorne, a Baptist preacher and explorer, settles in the area, establishing a trail and encouraging friends from North Carolina to join the settlement at Miller’s Station.

1835

Cairo was officially founded where its name was inspired by the hopes that a railroad line would connect it to the Gulf of Mexico, similar to the Nile River's connection to the Mediterranean Sea.

1860s

1862: Henry Miller sold his land to Seaborn Anderson Roddenbery. That same year, Roddenbery began his medicine practice from which he sold his open-kettle sugarcane syrup. 1867: Roddenbery had an office and a general store that sold syrup from large cypress barrels, and people brought their own jars to be filled with his molasses.

1870

Cairo is incorporated as a town.

1889

Roddenbery markets the first pure Georgia cane syrup as “Roddenbery’s Old Plantation Molasses.” The business grows, becoming the W. B. Roddenbery Company by 1920.

Early 1900s

1904: The Cairo Messenger, the city’s newspaper, is founded and remains under the ownership and operation of the Wind family for generations. 1905: Cairo is designated seat of the newly formed Grady County. 1906: Cairo is incorporated as a city.

1936

The W. B. Roddenbery Company expands its product lines to include pickles, peanut butter, and boiled peanuts.

1939

The Roddenbery Memorial Library is founded under a Works Progress Administration program by Wessie Connell, a local librarian.

Civil Rights Era

Cairo, like many Southern towns, was deeply affected by the Civil Rights Movement. The city saw protests, marches, and activism aimed at combating racial segregation and discrimination. In 1962, a notable event occurred when Charles Sherrod, a civil rights leader, led a protest march in Cairo that resulted in the arrest of several activists.

1964

The Roddenbery family donates $185,000 to build a new library facility. Wessie Connell's innovations in library practices, civil rights activism, and awards are recognized.

1993

Dean Foods, based in Dallas, acquires W. R. Roddenbery, later closing the Cairo plant. The former plant is renovated into a regional community center.

Present Day

Cairo has a focus on its revitalization efforts, aiming to preserve its historic downtown area while promoting economic development. The city has sought to balance its rich history with modern growth, encouraging tourism and investing in infrastructure and community initiatives.


Community Engagement

In our asset inventory methodology, community engagement is the name of the game. We're all about involving everyone, ensuring a rich tapestry of perspectives shapes our mapping process. We take inclusivity seriously, understanding that power dynamics can skew things. So, we work hard to level the field, seeking input from various community members and stakeholders.

Our approach goes beyond just physical assets. We delve into the social and cultural aspects, echoing the multidisciplinary approach capturing the themes of arts and culture, history, and nature and the environment. Through a blend of qualitative data, we capture both tangible and intangible dimensions, giving a holistic view of our community's resources. The community engagement was comprised of three components:

1. Surveying

In our exploration of Cairo's community perspectives, conducting a survey was a pivotal step. This survey was built to let folks actively or passively engage, aiming to gather a wide range of insights.

We crafted this survey with a mix of closed and open-ended questions. The goal? To dive deep into the diverse viewpoints in Cairo. Open-ended queries let people share detailed thoughts, adding richness to our data. But, they can be time-consuming to analyze. Closed questions give us structured data that's easier to crunch, but they might limit varied opinions.

To make sure the survey hit the mark, we made questions clear, concise, and relevant to Cairo's scene. We're on a mission to spot existing assets and chances for growth that fit the city's unique vibe.

Asset Type

Description

Human Assets

Highlighting folks or groups in Cairo with skills, knowledge, connections, passions, and time that help the community.

Institutional/Civic Assets

Pinpointing organizations, be they nonprofit, for-profit, or government-based, that chip in through programs, services, business, or ties.

Physical Assets

Spotting physical bits in Cairo—like spots, areas, or structures—that shape its character.

Cultural Assets

Nailing down cultural aspects—arts, music, language, traditions, stories, and histories—that define Cairo.

Types of Assets Examined within the Survey

Final Draft of Survey

To reach as many people as possible, we used various methods. We hit local events like football games and farmers markets, setting up physical surveys. These spots were key as they drew diverse crowds—like families and friends—who reflect the local vibe. We also got shoutouts and support from city folks like the Tourism Director and the Main Street Downtown Coordinator.

For those not at these events, we went online. Leveraging social media and the local paper, we spread the word about the survey. The link was on the city's official Instagram and featured in the Cairo Messenger. QR codes and URLs made it easy for folks to jump in.

In a nutshell, our survey method was carefully crafted to capture Cairo's diverse voices, ensuring a well-rounded picture of the community's perspectives and potential pathways for city development.

2. Interviews

Interviews played a unique role in our journey, fostering trust with community leaders and connecting with residents on a personal level. These conversations were vital for tapping into the rich local wisdom that guides our understanding of the community.

Alongside crafting our survey, we developed thoughtful questions for semi-structured interviews. Our interview strategy was methodical: first, we defined our research objectives, pinpointing three asset themes. Then, we sought out individuals with relevant knowledge and experiences tied to these themes. We aimed for diversity in our selection to capture a wide range of viewpoints.

Our questions were tailored to unearth diverse insights, contributing to a holistic grasp of Cairo's dynamics, assets, and potential for growth. These interviews were key in crafting a research outcome that's both inclusive and community-centered. They've helped shape our understanding of Cairo, reflecting the diverse narratives that make up this vibrant community.

Final Draft of Interview Questions

3. Workshops

In our efforts to connect with the community, we hosted educational sessions with students from Cairo High School's United States Local Government class. Our aim? To talk about real-world planning and the importance of public involvement. These sessions weren't just about teaching—they were about working together to spot the assets that make Cairo special.

Final Draft of Worksheet for Educational Workshops

We wanted to tap into the varied perspectives and local wisdom the community holds. Our approach was all about "shared learning," emphasizing the value of everyone's insights. During these sessions, we didn't just collect data; we had discussions and shared stories to understand how everyone sees these assets.

We handed out worksheets prompting students to think about what they considered assets in Cairo. The "pinwheel" format was inspired by online toolkit materials, aiming for a fun and interactive way to identify these assets. Students brainstormed and shared ideas, giving us a peek into their perspectives on community development.

It was a dynamic exchange of knowledge and thoughts. Facilitators moved around, offering guidance as students discussed and shared their thoughts on physical, institutional, cultural, human, and economic assets. This whole setup allowed for a creative and non-linear approach to asset identification, perfectly suited for engaging high school students.


Outcomes from Community Engagement

During our two-month community engagement phase, folks really stepped up!

  • We gathered 47 surveys,
  • Sat down for 7 insightful interviews with key community members, and
  • Held workshops with 197 high schoolers at Cairo High School!

Community Assets

A total of 562 responses led to the identification of 198 assets.

Asset Theme

Marker Color

Count

Percent

Arts and Culture

Red

150 assets

76%

History

Blue

33 assets

17%

Nature and Environment

Green

15 assets

7%

Distribution of Assets by Theme

Assets cluster in central and northeastern Cairo, and notably around downtown. Of all the assets we identified, 144 of them were found to be within the city. When looking at the downtown area, 40 assets were identified. When looking at how these assets are distributed throughout the city and county, cultural and historical sites tend to be more centralized within the city and downtown while natural sites are situated in less urbanized areas for preservation and ecotourism support.

Assets Categorized by Theme

Natural and Environmental Assets

These assets are primarily physical, offering recreational, educational, and conservation value to the community.They enhance well-being by providing outdoor spaces for activities, leisure, education, and emphasizing the significance of natural environments in community life.

Multiple parks offer accessible recreational spots, promoting physical activity and serving as community gathering spaces, such as Davis Park hosting the Growing Grady Farmers Market. Nature centers and preserves provide educational opportunities, fostering environmental awareness, protecting biodiversity, and supporting conservation.

Birdsong Nature Center

People like Margaret Tyson are assets themselves where they exemplify community contributions through their environmental initiatives, organizational involvement, and conservation efforts. Tyson is a board member of the Birdsong Nature Center. Birdsong exemplifies how natural and environmental assets can have the balance of preservation as well as ecotourism through their conservation easement granted in the summer of 2023 to limit the development of the land permanently and to protect its natural resources in the Red Hills region.

While conserving land, ecotourism promotes both environmental stewardship, community involvement, and economic growth while preserving the environment.

Where are these assets?

7 out of 15 assets are within Cairo, while the rest span Grady County. Assets tend to scatter in the broader county, primarily on the city's periphery, emphasizing their location away from denser urban areas, aligning with typical urban planning that reserves peripheral spaces for environmental resources.

Assets within the Theme of Nature and Environment

Arts and Cultural Assets

Cairo's arts and culture assets are a lively blend of community involvement, educational initiatives, and individual contributions, showcasing the town's diverse cultural heritage.

Community events like Mistletoe Market and Mule Day serve as significant cultural milestones, bonding the community and celebrating local traditions. Local teachers and artisans play a crucial role, nurturing Cairo's artistic and cultural heritage, showcasing the grassroots nature of the town's cultural scene.

The Cairo High School Syrup Makers

Cairo High School fosters a culture of participation in arts, sports, and various student run organizations, emphasizing youth involvement and skill development.

These assets collectively create an inclusive and vibrant cultural environment in Cairo, shaping the town's identity and enhancing residents' lives through a blend of education, tradition, and personal artistic expression.

Where are these assets?

Assets predominantly cluster within city limits, notably within the Downtown Development Area, signifying it as a cultural hub. The city center boasts a concentration of 112 out of 150 assets, mostly institutional and economic, while cultural assets extend into Grady County and neighboring areas, indicating a broader cultural influence beyond city limits.

Assets within the Theme of Arts and Culture

Historical Assets

These historical assets embody Cairo's historical essence, spanning healthcare institutions, courthouses, museums, and symbols of societal change. Each asset adds to the community's historical narrative, reflecting its growth, values, and contributions to larger historical contexts, notably African American achievements and social movements.

First and Broad Pizza Co.

Acting as guardians of history, these assets tell tales of bygone eras, showcasing different aspects of Cairo's past and cultural significance. From the Grady County History Museum to vibrant celebrations like Black History Month, they honor diverse contributions, fostering a sense of pride among residents.

First and Broad Pizza Co. exemplifies how these historic assets are transformed into everyday components of their communities. Once the train depot and police department for Cairo, First and Broad Pizza Co. has brought new life to the downtown as it has brought people together and built a greater sense of community for residents.

Where are these assets?

The maps categorize the historical assets in Cairo and Grady County by theme and classification, indicating their concentration within city limits and downtown. Notably, 25 of 33 assets are within Cairo, 13 of which reside in the Downtown Development Area, hinting at a rich historical core that potentially drives tourism and education.

Assets within the Theme of History


Interpretation and Discussion

Interconnectedness of the Assets

In Cairo, Georgia, the downtown area stands as a bustling center for cultural, social, and institutional activities, fostering community development. This concentration of assets indicates a shared space for cultural interaction and engagement. The assets, spanning from educational and healthcare institutions to natural recreational spaces, contribute significantly to the town's well-being and identity.

Community involvement and pride are evident through donations and development efforts. Educational institutions like libraries and museums not only hold knowledge but actively engage the community in preserving heritage. Events unite residents, fostering a collective identity, while historical landmarks symbolize past societal values.

These assets also play a crucial role in the local economy, enriching the present-day fabric of Cairo. Together, they weave a tapestry of history, culture, education, and society, defining the town's character and preserving its heritage for future generations. Their interconnectedness portrays a vibrant and resilient community structure, meeting daily needs while enhancing Cairo's cohesive appeal.

Potential for Positive Change

Creating Long-term Frameworks for Community Assets

There should be an emphasize long-term strategies for managing community assets and fostering collaboration for sustainable growth in Grady County, Georgia. To ensure asset resilience amid leadership changes, the focus is on creating unique frameworks for each asset. This involves formal documentation, decentralized responsibilities through committees, and capacity building to safeguard assets beyond individual contributions.

For sustainable growth and natural resource preservation, a comprehensive plan is proposed, beginning with a shared community vision cultivated through inclusive discussions. Sustainable development practices are highlighted to balance economic progress and environmental stewardship. Addressing diverse community needs, the plan aims to prioritize infrastructure, economic development, and inclusivity.

Artistic Map of the City of Cairo and Grady County created for the Cairo Represents! community program.

Fostering Collaboration for Sustainable Growth and Preservation of Natural Resources

Preserving natural treasures involves establishing clear guidelines, collaborating with environmental experts, and engaging local conservationists. Educational outreach programs inform residents about planned growth benefits and sustainable practices, fostering shared responsibility. Collaboration across sectors (businesses, educational institutions, government, and non-profits) is vital for effective initiatives and addressing diverse demographics.

Finally, the plan requires realistic implementation mechanisms with regular evaluations, ensuring adaptability to changing circumstances and community feedback for ongoing relevance and responsiveness.


References


Acknowledgements

Thank you to our professors, Dr. Kelly Kinahan and Dr. Kerry Fang, in directing and mentoring us throughout the duration of this project.

Thank you to Ms. Shelly Searcy, the City of Cairo's Tourism Director, for providing expert guidance throughout the course of this graduate student project.

Thank you to all the residents, business owners, professionals, and public officials who contributed their thoughts and voices to this project, as without them, this project wouldn't be possible without their involvement.

Credits

Students: Michael Greco, Lily Savage, and Stella Souza Advisors: Dr. Kelly Kinahan and Dr. Li Kerry Fang Department of Urban and Regional Planning | Florida State University Spring 2024

The City of Cairo, circa 1890s, from the Grady County History Museum and Cultural Center

Final Draft of Interview Questions

Final Draft of Worksheet for Educational Workshops

Birdsong Nature Center

The Cairo High School Syrup Makers

First and Broad Pizza Co.

Artistic Map of the City of Cairo and Grady County created for the Cairo Represents! community program.