Macon has always considered it a national treasure; now it will become official

Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon is set to be officially described as something many visitors would call it anyway.

The monument is expected to be designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation during a news conference at 10 a.m. Friday at the visitors center, 1207 Emery Highway, according to a release. A reception open to the public will be held afterward.

The designation is made possible through the efforts of the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative, the Ocmulgee National Monument Association and Historic Macon Foundation.

During the news conference, David Brown, executive vice president and chief preservation officer of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, will offer remarks about the monument’s new designation.

The National Trust uses its more than 65 years of expertise and resources to protect a growing portfolio of more than 80 National Treasures. Among them are threatened buildings, neighborhoods, communities and landscapes that stand at risk across the country. Ocmulgee National Monument is one of 16 sites listed in the Southeast region.

For more information, go to www.savingplaces.org/treasures.

This story was originally published November 30, 2016 at 9:08 AM with the headline "Macon has always considered it a national treasure; now it will become official."