Spirit of Cherokee Seeks Donations to Preserve Cherokee County’s Avenue of Flags

The Avenue of Flags stretches along U.S. Highway 411 between Centre and Leesburg, honoring 503 Cherokee County veterans through a moving display of American flags and memorial crosses. Photo courtesy of The Spirit of Cherokee; headline graphic by The Weekly Ledger News.

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Local/Community News | Monday, September 7, 2026

CENTRE, Ala. — A powerful symbol of patriotism and remembrance lines U.S. Highway 411 between Centre and Leesburg, honoring Cherokee County veterans who served their country with courage and sacrifice.

Known as the Avenue of Flags, the memorial display now features 503 flags and crosses. Each tribute represents a life, a story, and a lasting legacy of service.

The Avenue of Flags is maintained by The Spirit of Cherokee, a local nonprofit organization founded in October 1994 and incorporated in March 1995. The organization operates as a 501(c)(3) and is dedicated to supporting civic, patriotic, cultural, and charitable causes throughout Cherokee County.

Weather permitting, volunteers display the Avenue of Flags seven times each year in observance of:

• Presidents Day

• Memorial Day

• Flag Day

• Independence Day

• Labor Day

• Sept. 11

• Thanksgiving Day

On Sept. 11, organizers display only the American flags.

The memorial has become a cherished local tradition and a source of pride throughout Cherokee County. As the flags wave along the highway, they provide a visible reminder of the sacrifices made by the area’s military veterans.

“It’s a meaningful way to honor those who’ve served, and it brings people together in a shared spirit of gratitude and remembrance,” the Avenue of Flags Committee stated.

The committee includes Johnny Roberts, Joy Perry, and Thereasa Hulgan.

Maintaining such a large display requires dedication, volunteers, and continued financial support. The Spirit of Cherokee is asking individuals, families, businesses, and community organizations to consider donating to help preserve the Avenue of Flags for future generations.

Checks should be made payable to The Spirit of Cherokee and mailed to:

The Spirit of Cherokee, Inc. c/o Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, 801 Cedar Bluff Road, Building A, Centre, AL 35960

Community support will help ensure that the flags continue to tell the story of Cherokee County’s enduring gratitude and respect for its veterans.

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