Cherokee Lake Park, one of Thomasville’s most beloved greenspaces, has seen its share of visitors over the years. Over time, however, the natural wear and tear on the park necessitated a large-scale beautification project which was recently completed.  

Now that the park is reopened, residents are enjoying the improvements. One shining new addition to the park is the illumination of the lake fountain, courtesy of the Thomasville Shriners Club.

In early 2017, Lloyd Eckberg, a former president of the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce, suggested the idea of illuminating the fountain at a meeting with his fellow Shriners and 2017 Club President Joe Futch agreed and put it to a vote with the club. 

“It was something we knew we wanted to do right away,” said Tom Gilbert, 2018 president of the Thomasville Shriners Club. T

he following June, the Shriners Club approached the City of Thomasville to discuss plans to donate lighting for the fountain.  The funds for this project, all donated by members of the Shriners Club of Thomasville, were enough to cover all building materials and the installation of the lighting display.

Following months of hard work, the fountain lighting project is now complete and ready for residents to enjoy. 

“Six spotlights are mounted to a circular track that surround the fountain, each with the ability to have their color changed to different patriotic or holiday hues depending on the season,” said City of Thomasville project manager Eve Geyer. “This was an important aspect the Shriners of Thomasville wanted to include for the public’s enjoyment.”

Gilbert hopes the lights will leave a lasting impression.

“As the younger generations grow up, we want them to be aware of our mission statement and who we are, that it’s all about the kids,” he said. “We’re here to help the children in our community as we support the Shriners’ Hospital. When you see Shriners out asking for donations, it’s always for the kids, not us. The hospitals we support help children with bone problems, burns, and cleft palates at no cost to the family. We ask for donations to send to our hospitals to help these children.”

For more information on how the Thomasville Shiner Club gives back or how you can become a member, reach out to thomasvillelodge369@gmail.com. More details can be found on the City’s park restoration project Thomasville.org.