History tells us that the man who more than any other deserves credit for the founding of Atlantic was Franklin H. Whitney. His passion inspired a strong and enterprising breed of citizens who embraced his vision and settled in the lush hills and valleys of Cass County. In August 1868, Mr. Whitney, along with several others, met at the Mayor’s office in the town. The name Atlantic was proposed, citing that it was the only place of that name between the two oceans. As it was told, Whitney marked what is now 6th and Chestnut Streets, and plowed two furrows 100 feet apart all the way to the railroad right-of-way north of 2nd Street, giving Atlantic its beautiful main street.
This statue is dedicated to the City of Atlantic on its 150th Anniversary, from the First Whitney Bank & Trust.