The Rome Area Heritage Foundation is calling on Floyd County leaders to preserve the Historic Floyd County Courthouse following the March 23 fire that damaged the landmark structure.

In a recent letter to the editor, the foundation said the courthouse has been part of Floyd County’s daily life, history and architectural heritage for more than 130 years.

The 1893 courthouse is known for its Richardsonian arches, terra-cotta trim and gargoyles. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 and is considered an example of Romanesque Revival architecture.

The foundation pointed to the Hancock County Courthouse in Sparta as an example of what can be done after a devastating fire. That courthouse was restored after a 2014 fire through community support, leadership and a commitment to historic preservation.

The Rome Area Heritage Foundation says it is willing to work with Floyd County officials through advocacy, possible state and federal grants, incentives, fundraising and a potential nomination to the Georgia Trust’s Places in Peril program.

The group says preserving the courthouse would protect one of Floyd County’s most important symbols and allow the community to bring “beauty from the ashes.”