The Liberty University monogram that crowns Candler’s Mountain in Lynchburg has long been a landmark visible from across the city. Since its installation in 2007, the LU “L” and “U” monogram has become a defining feature of the campus skyline—until now, when it’s sparked a local dispute over whether it should stay or be replaced.
A local petition, titled Restore Candler’s Mountain to Preserve Family Heritage and led by Austin Candler, argues the mountain bears history tied to his family and that placing a giant university logo on it distorts that heritage. Candler has proposed replacing the monogram with a cross, saying the symbol would “bring the city together” amid what he described as rising crime, and that the current feature marred the sacred heritage of the site. He declined to speak with ABC13 for an interview but emphasized that his concern is with the emblem itself, not Liberty University.
Support for keeping the monogram is strong among many in Lynchburg. Some residents see the logo as a staple of the city and campus life. “It’s really pretty, it adds a lot to the campus. Everybody sees it,” said Taylor Daugherty. Virginia Heffernan added, “We go to Lynchburg, and we still like it. We think it adds to their campus.” A Liberty student, Caleb Leach, also voiced attachment to the emblem, saying it fosters a sense of belonging: “When I’m driving back from school and I see the Freedom Tower and the monogram, it’s just really fun.” Megan Wheeler echoed the sentiment that the monogram is a visible symbol of Lynchburg’s identity.
As of Monday, August 18, more than 900 people had signed the petition, with many leaving comments. Some signers criticized the mountain’s alteration as inappropriate or unnecessary. Jennifer called the change a repudiation of the site’s heritage, while Polly suggested alternatives like a meditation garden for a more environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing option. Others noted that Lynchburg is more than Liberty University and that logos are common in college towns.
The conversation also highlighted broader perspectives. Some observers argued that a college town naturally features a prominent emblem, while others argued for embracing a symbol that could unite the city as a whole, not just the university community. Caleb Leach and others emphasized the emblem’s role in defining the town’s character, while proponents of a change stressed considering the full range of Lynchburg’s residents.
ABC13 reached out to Liberty University for comment on whether a change might be pursued, but no response had been received at the time of reporting.
What’s next: If the petition gains momentum, local discussions could prompt a formal review process involving city officials and the university. Community meetings and public comment periods would likely shape any decision on signage or memorials atop the mountain. Depending on timelines and agreements, a compromise could emerge—one that acknowledges both family heritage and the city’s broader identity.
Summary: The controversy over the Liberty University monogram on Candler’s Mountain pits heritage and campus branding against a desire by some residents to replace the emblem with a cross. With more than 900 signatures on the petition and divided community opinions, the case is moving toward a public dialogue that could lead to a new symbol or to the preservation of the current landmark, depending on future discussions and decisions by local authorities and Liberty University.
Additional notes and angles for follow-up:
– Explore the historical significance of Candler’s Mountain and who Daniel Candler was, to provide deeper context about the family heritage argument.
– If there are campus plans or city policies governing signage on public or shared property, outline the potential approvals or processes involved in changing the symbol.
– Consider collecting interim public opinion through a local poll or town hall to gauge broader sentiment beyond the signatures already collected.
– Offer visual comparisons: what a cross monument on the mountain might look like versus the current monogram, including any environmental or aesthetic considerations raised by residents.