Vibrant Neighborhoods in the Historic West End

CULTURAL MARKET Center city vision President’s Letter C o m m u n i t y E n g a g e m e n t Second Edition Contents B u l l e t i n A Johnson C. Smith University Magazine FALL 2010 jcsu.edu

PRES I DE n t 18 Greetings: Ronald L. Carter, Ph.D ED i t o R i a l T E a m 34 Editors: Community engagement is one of my life’s La Vondra Farquharson, MA passions. Last year, I thought it would be apropos Sherrill Hampton, JD Benny L. Smith, APR, MMC to share with the greater Charlotte area all the various civic outreach projects of which the JCSU Writers: Family was proud to be a part, as well as how much J’Tanya Adams of a positive impact we are making in the lives Kristian Coley of others. As a result, we created the inaugural Malcolm Graham issue of the Community Engagement magazine. Our Sherrill Hampton, JD craig Lovallen 20 student athletes graced the cover as they worked Aaron McKeithan, Jr. at a Habitat for Humanity site. Service learning Benny L. Smith, APR, MMC is paramount in the education of our students. Marguerite Williams Most recently, the Corporation for National and 22 Community Service honored Johnson C. Smith PH o t o g R A PH Y University with a place on the President’s Higher calvin Ferguson Education Community Service Honor Roll for exemplary service efforts and service to America’s DES i g n communities. This is the fourth time JCSU Set?Communicate! www.setedu.com has been recognized. As you can see, we are no strangers to community service.

For this second issue we wanted to take a different approach and focus on the 12 historic Cover Story 4 Legacy of Civic Engagement Johnson C. Smith University is committed to servant leadership neighborhoods surrounding the University. We would like to extend a sincere thank you to the Beatties Ford Road and civic engagement Task Force and to Sherrill Hampton, Director, Center for Applied Leadership and Community Development, for being such vital catalysts in the process. Our writers interviewed association leaders, lifetime residents, and even some Features 6 2020 Vision Plan + Beatties Ford Road of the newest members of the communities. Interview w/ Harvey Gantt, Former Mayor and 2020 Vision Plan Steering Committee Co-Chair Our hope is that the magazine will be used as a resource for city planners, visitors, and even those among us who ride along the Beatties Ford Road Corridor without realizing the rich history we pass daily. Regardless if you live in Published by the Office of President, Office of Public Relations, and the Center for Applied 8 JCSU Makes No Small Plans a thriving metropolitan area or in a quaint little town, it is the purposeful act of getting to know your neighbors that Leadership and Community Development for the An Overview of the Beatties Ford Road Corridor Revitalization gives you that wonderful sense of community. Or, as Shakespeare wrote, “What is the city but the people?” community and friends of JCSU. Initiative

Sincerely, Unless noted, all materials contained herein 10 Historic West End Cultural Market ©2010 Johnson C. Smith University. All rights reserved. A Resident-Driven Initiative to Promote Economic Revitalization Through Arts and Culture Dr. Ronald L. Carter, President Johnson C. Smith University 12 The Neighborhoods of West End Profiles of 12 of the 27 neighborhoods along the Beatties Ford Road Corridor o n t he c o v er The neighborhoods along the Beatties Ford Road Corridor and JCSU’s closest neighbors Charlotte’s Premier Independent Urban University comprise Charlotte’s Historic West End. Community Engagement

8 agazine verview 8 Proud to Continue our M O Legacy of Civic Engagement

ohnson C. Smith are being created as new developments are built University is (see Neighborhood Listing on page 9). The uniqueness committed to servant of each neighborhood in the Historic West End leadership and civic contributes to the collective spirit that permeates engagement. It is a throughout Charlotte’s historical and cultural fabric. learning community In addition, the newly created neighborhoods link J that is passionate about the past and present with the future. its responsibility to serve. To that end, the Center A place is nothing without the people who live for Applied there. The heart and soul of the Beatties Ford Road Leadership and Corridor are its residents. They are Community the warmest, most generous, and Development determined I have encountered was launched in any community in which I in April 2009. have lived and/or traveled. They The Center are proud of their community serves as a and heritage, and rightly so. community- The Historic West End Market based educational is but one example of resident- highway led initiatives that speak to the connecting love that the residents have Charlotte’s for their history, culture, and historic neighborhoods. neighborhoods, I could continue to expound on the greater the people and neighborhoods. Mecklenburg region, the Instead, I invite you to read the nonprofit sector, local each Unique various articles about the current government, faith-based Historic West End revitalization initiative and the institutions, and the business neighborhood 2020 planning efforts, as well as community with the faculty contributes to the to review the overall listing of the and student body of the collective spirit neighborhoods and feature stories University. The past year of Charlotte’s on JCSU’s closest neighbors. There are twenty-seven has been most rewarding. historical and The University’s gates are open! neighborhoods along I deeply appreciate the warm cultural fabric. Smith is proud to continue Beatties Ford Road and generous welcome the its legacy of civic engagement and more are‘‘ he heart and soul of the greater Charlotte community has and work with its neighbors to being created as T extended to me, especially the Beatties Ford enhance community vitality and expand economic new developments Beatties Ford Road Corridor Road Corridor residents. are built. opportunity along the Beatties Ford Road Corridor. Through my work with the neighborhoods along are its residents. They are the Beatties Ford Road, I witnessed first-hand the character, charm, and resiliency of the people and warmest, most generous and place. For that reason, I am extremely pleased to Peace and Blessings, present this special edition of the BULLETIN, determined I have encountered in which showcases the great neighborhoods along the Beatties Ford Road Corridor. Whether one fondly remembers the area as the Historic West End, calls any community in which I have it the Northwest Corridor or simply Beatties Ford Sherrill Hampton Road, the area is still a great place to live and is just Special Assistant to the President & Director of the lived and/or traveled.” a few minutes from uptown Charlotte. There are 27 Center for Applied Leadership and Community neighborhoods along Beatties Ford Road and more Development

4 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 5 Community Engagement

Defining theN ext Charlotte Decade 8 2020 ision lan 8 An Interview with Harvey Gantt, Architect and Former Charlotte Mayor V P By Marguerite Williams

ith an October 2009 Community Workshop, and Gateway Village and Uptown. We want to make improvements Charlotte began a project of critical importance in facilities, streetscapes, and transportation options that eliminate to the future of the city: the Center City 2020 Vision the expressway as a barrier to growth and development,” Gnatt Plan, which is a collaborative process among Charlotte commented. “We’ve made these kinds of improvements in the Center City Partners, the City of Charlotte, and connections with South End, and Westside residents will see changes Mecklenburg County. Steering that allow them to move freely and safely between their Committee co-chairs Ann Caulkins neighborhoods and Uptown.” W and Harvey Gantt have years of Some seeds already have been planted with grants being experience in community leadership and sought for public art and lighting improvements that will are determined to involve citizens in every help make the walk under the I-77 overpass into a pleasant phase of the plan. and neighborly experience. Said Gantt “Under President Gantt, Mayor of Charlotte from 1983 Ron Carter’s leadership, Johnson C. Smith University is until 1987, is optimistic about what this stretching beyond its traditional walls to reach out to the kind of planning can mean to the city and surrounding community. Of course, he is developing the to the region. “This is a framework plan, inner campus, but sees the University’s role as a prime as opposed to a master plan. This is our mover in the West End Corridor, as well, with the building chance to determine how we want our city of the new fine arts facility and more off-campus housing to grow. Charlotte has been involved in for non-traditional students who live in the area.” framework planning since the ‘60s, and With the Steering Committee’s commitment to citizen we know that the results can be impressive engagement, the planning process has been divided into if we have enough citizen input and the five working groups, each comprised of 15 members of right project team.” An Interview with the community. Each one is being asked to contribute MIG, Inc., a multidisciplinary urban Harvey Gantt ideas and concepts to the project team in one of five planning and community design firm based areas: economic vitality; urban living; transportation in California, is guiding the project team. and mobility; arts, culture and entertainment; and parks, Local firms have joined them:C oleJenest recreation, and the environment. and Stone, urban designers and landscape architects; Kimley-Horn “The 2020 Vision Plan cannot be successful without public outreach,” and Associates, transportation and infrastructure experts; Wray Gnatt observed. “We cannot plan in isolation. People must have Ward, an integrated marketing communications firm; andE conomic the chance to express their feelings and hopes. It is gratifying to see Research Associates, economics and marketing experts. people come from all over the city. Our goal is to expand the notion “As we approached 2010, we assessed the 1999 plan for the Center that people will claim Center City as theirs, not just a place for those City, called Vision 2010, which helped pave the way for Center who live and work there. Uptown must be a cultural center and an City to become more of a destination with entertainment and sports economic growth engine for the whole region for it to survive and The West End plays an venues. Many other goals from that plan also have been met, such thrive. It has to become the region’s ‘living room’.” important part in The as redeveloping the old convention center into a mixed-use facility, One aspect of economic development of special interest to Gantt Charlotte Center City building parks and housing that would appeal to average working 2020 Vision Plan.‘‘ his is a framework plan, is the preliminary planning for a streetcar that would connect the families, developing the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, and designing T Beatties Ford Road Corridor to Center City. “I am pleased with the pedestrian friendly streets. It was now time to look forward, again, City Council’s willingness to proceed with this planning and to give as opposed to a master plan. and create another ten year plan,” explained Gantt. it a high priority. Businesses along Beatties Ford Road will see the The 2020 Vision Plan defines theC enter City as the urban core of value of the permanent infrastructure that a streetcar brings in the This is our chance to determine Charlotte-Mecklenburg, including Uptown, South End, and nearby quality and kind of development. Because the route doesn’t change, residential neighborhoods just outside the I-277 loop. Charlotte’s a streetcar creates certainty about the number of people coming how we want our city to grow oldest surviving black neighborhood is Biddleville, which grew into by those businesses, which will enhance growth and economic Biddleville-Five Points, adding the area around the intersection of development in the Corridor.” . . . we know that the results can West Trade, West Fifth Street, Rozelles Ferry Road, and Beatties The Steering Committee has established a website they hope Ford Road, with Johnson C. Smith University near the center of interested citizens will visit to discover more about the Center City the neighborhood. In 1903, it became a trolley community, and the 2020 Vision Plan and to learn how to become involved. Go to: be impressive with enough citizen leaders of the 2020 Vision Plan are investigating the possibility of www.centercity2020.info. recreating the line to Uptown. input and the right project team.” As Gantt said, “We must have citizen input. We must bring everyone “Connections of all kinds need to be better between the Westside together to guide us to a successful future.”

6 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 7 Community Engagement 8 Community Engagement JCSU Makes No Small Plans Neighborhoods along Historic West End “Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men’s blood”— Daniel Burnham eatties ord oad By Malcolm Graham, Special Assistant to the President for Government and Community Relations B F R Neighborhood Avery Glen

Association of the group. He insists that we close our eyes and imagine Biddleville/Smallwood/Five Points

the possibilities for Historic West End. Beatties Ford Road Task To support the work of the Committee, the task force Capps Hill Village

s the President

received two planning grants: Wachovia Wells Fargo Cindy Park of the Historic Force works hard to revitalize Foundation Grant ($500,000) and an Advantage Carolina West End Grant from the Dalebrook Neighborhood Charlotte Chamber of Association, I am Historic West End Commerce ($75,000). Davis Meadows delighted to offer Acongratulations to Johnson C. Smith Key strategic initiatives Eleanore Heights University on the publication of this that the grants support special edition of the Bulletin, are: Firestone which highlights the neighborhoods lose your eyes and along the Beatties Ford Road Corridor. imagine this: • Master Site Plan & Market Garden City The Beatties Ford Road Corridor, Young professionals Feasibility Study along with the other communities that scurry to the transit for the Beatties Garden Park/ make up the Northwest sector of the stop to catch the streetcar Ford Road Corridor Northwood Hills/ City of Charlotte, is a great place to uptown. C • Upgrade lighting Northwood Park live. The area has contributed much Johnson C. Smith University to improve the to the history, cultural vibrancy, and students meet to review for underpass at the Hamilton Circle/ economic livelihood of the Queen City. their exams over a cup of coffee. West Trade Street/ Hamilton Village From astute political leadership to great An older couple sits in the I-77 Bridge in educators, the neighborhoods along corner of the bookstore reading conjunction Hyde Park Beatties Ford Road have provided human and social the morning newspaper. with the Charlotte capital that have helped shape Charlotte, the region, Mecklenburg Lakeview Village ‘‘ state, and nation. Students head towards the Arts Factory rom astute political Arts & Science Historically, the University has been an integral facility for morning classes. Wachovia Wells Fargo Council Lincoln Heights F Foundation Grant leadership to great educators, part of the Northwest sector and especially the The aromas of food attempt to lure you award ceremony • Community McCrorey Heights Beatties Ford Road Corridor. It is evident that the into one of the many restaurants serving Cleanup the neighborhoods along commitment of the University is as strong today as it diverse cuisines. The faint sound of a Campaign Northwood Estates was in years past. Presently, it is playing a pivotal role saxophone can be heard as Jimmy D and the Two Steps in the current revitalization efforts for the area. practice for their set later that evening. • Property acquisition Beatties Ford Road have Oaklawn Park The Historic West End Neighborhood Association You take it all in as you stroll down the tree-lined street. • Survey of existing small businesses along the Corridor Oakview Terrace is proud to stand with JCSU and the neighborhoods provided human and social along Beatties Ford Road in shaping a new era It’s 7:30 in the morning, and West Trade Street is bustling and improved quality of life for all residents in the with activity. In addition, JCSU is investing more than $500,000 to Seversville convert the vacant Griffin Brothers tire and auto service capital that have helped shape Northwest sector. JCSU, in conjunction with its Beatties Ford Road Task facility on West Trade Street into the Arts Factory. Family Slater Springs Force, is hard at work to make that dream a reality. The task Dollar Store recently opened its new concept store at 1720 Charlotte, the region, state, force was created in 2008 by a unanimous vote of the JCSU West Trade Street. In addition, the Historic West End Taylor/LaSalle With Warmest Regards, Board of Trustees. Its goal is to revitalize the area around the Market, an open air market featuring arts, craft, food and and nation.” University that reinforces the University’s presence in the other items, opened in August 2009. Trinity Park area and attracts both students and residents to Historic West End, by providing housing, retail, services, mixed-use, and JCSU is determined to be a leader in the revitalization of University Park Historic West End and the Beatties Ford Road Corridor. entertainment options. Aaron McKeithan, Jr. While enlightened self-interest may in some way drive the University Park North Members of the task force include property owners, University’s commitment, the overall economic and social developers, city planners, residents, and business owners. well being of the neighboring communities and the Charlotte Washington Heights region is the overriding consideration. Task force member Darrel Williams, a partner in the firm Neighborhoods listed are between The Historic West End Neighborhood Association is an informal collaborative Neighboring Concepts, has been instrumental in the work Let’s dream together. Wedgewood I-77 Bridge/West Trade Street and gathering of the 15-plus neighborhood associations and other community-based Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road and entities that call the Northwest Corridor home. The group meets on a monthly basis Wesley Heights are listed in alphabetical order. and shares information on areas of interest that affect the quality of life for residents.

8 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 9 Community Engagement

A Cultural Market Aims to 8 ultural arket 8 Revitalize West Trade Street C M By Benny L. Smith, MMC, APR

any people have ideas on how to make a reasonable fee for space. The market will open on life better. But, only a few of them May 1, 2010 and run through October 31, 2010. choose to put in the hard work it takes to transform those dreams into realities. “Building this market gave us an opportunity to demonstrate through our collective efforts what was In 2009, a small group of West End residents and is the fabric of the Historic West End,” said Adams. led by J’Tanya Adams dreamed of having a cultural market on West Trade Months after the idea was presented, M the Historic West End Market opened Street. A few months after going to the right people, they transformed what used in August 2009 with 60 vendors to be a vacant lot into a thriving cultural participating. market where an array of art and products “The opening day of the market was can be found. exhilarating and overwhelming,” “It’s exciting to know that we came together Adams said. “The synergy was and did what we were always able to do,” said unbelievable. The mood was festive.” Adams, founder of the Historic West End T’Afo Feimster, CEO and founder of Market and chairperson of Historic West End LATBAH (Life and Times in Black Partners, Inc. “We did not allow the many American History) Collard Green obstacles and unfulfilled promises to halt the Museum, was one of the vendors creation of our market. We took nothing and last year at the market and plans to fashioned something of substance.” participate this year. The idea for the market began in April Historic West End “I am in total support of the committee’s 2009 when Adams asked the neighborhood Partners, Inc. has efforts with this cultural market,” presidents of Seversville, Biddleville/ an 11-member Feimster said. “It is going to take a Smallwood/Five Points, and Wesley Heights board of directors minute for this new venue to catch on, to support the cultural market concept as a Chairperson – J’Tanya Adams but in time it will with the support of vehicle to define the UrbanC ultural Arts the community and vendors as well.” District. Their union would establish a destination place in the Historic West End Corridor. Femister said the foundation for the cultural market has “No one is better equipped to present our rich history, culture been laid out well for it to operate properly. and talents,” Adams said. “This cultural market is not just geared towards visual artists, The group agreed, so Adams then identified 1601 WestT rade which is what you find at most cultural markets,” he said. I“ felt Street, a Griffin family property and former car wash and ice there was a reach to be inclusive with other vendors that makes company, as the appropriate site for the market. The designated for a broader customer base.” neighborhood representatives talked with Mike Griffin, offering visitors & Vendors Adams said she wanted to be very clear: the market “is not a at the Historic West him more details about the market’s operations and its potential flea market.” Among the items offered, are fresh cut flowers, impact for the Historic West End community. End Market on West he idea for the market began produce, new books, handbags and accessories, pottery, fiber Trade Street. T “Mike was pleased to ask his father to aid us with the art, natural oils, glass art, apparel, photography, antiques, community revitalization initiative” said Adams. “It is destined collectibles, furniture, baked and canned goods, organic April 2009 when the Seversville, to spur economic development, and historical and cultural products, and ethnic cuisines. awareness in the area.” In the future, the Historic West End Partners, Inc. (Jeanette Biddleville/Smallwood/Five Points, Impressed, Larry Griffin, Sr. and sons Larry Jr. and Mike leased Praylor, Honorable Linwood Foust, Michael Doney, Charles the two-and-a-half acre property to the neighborhood group Assenco) will strive to incorporate spaces for small businesses and Wesley Heights neighborhoods for a nominal annual fee. and expanding retailers into the existing market format. The cost of a 10-foot by 10-foot space will be affordable for artists were asked to support the cultural Recognizing the need for a more formal structure, the group and vendors. These funds will be applied to the market’s formed the Historic West End Partners, Inc., a nonprofit operational budget. Historic West End Partners, Inc., will organization with an 11- member board of directors. The continue to work with JCSU, the Historic West Neighborhood market concept as a vehicle to define new organization is working diligently to make the market Association, and the Historic West End Business Association sustainable. This year, vendors are being called upon to a pay “until the vision for a vibrant West End area is fulfilled.” the Urban Cultural Arts District.

10 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 11 8 West End Feature Biddleville /Smallwood /Five Points The Heart of the West End 8 By Benny L. Smith

o some people, West Trade Street is had their say in how they wanted their community to look just a way to get to Interstate 77 and Uptown in the future. Charlotte, but to Attorney J. Charles Jones it means much more. Today, Jones focuses most of his attention on serving as a leader of the Biddleville/Five Points/Smallwood “I have lived on this street Neighborhood Community Association. for most of my life,” Jones said In the last decade, the group has Tduring an interview inside his been successful in spearheading Biddleville home. the incorporation of several neighborhood groups in the areas Jones, 72, has lived in the Biddleville of Seversville, Wesley Heights, and community for 62 years. His parents, the Lincoln Heights. Rev. Joseph Thomas Jones and Ione Jones, moved to Charlotte from Chester, S.C., in “All of these neighborhoods are still 1947. His father was a Presbyterian minister viable,” Jones said. “Our goal for and his mother was an English teacher Biddleville/Smallwood/Five Points is to at Johnson C. Smith University. More build a beloved community where all than 20 of his family members, including people can live together whether we are himself, either received degrees from JCSU white, black, gay, or straight. We want or Biddle University. to bring back that closeness that existed in the community during the 1940s to Biddleville is Charlotte’s oldest surviving 1960s where everybody looked out for black neighborhood. At its heart is Johnson Biddleville/ each other.” He and the residents are C. Smith University, which opened shortly Smallwood/Five- working hard to fulfill the vision for after the Civil War as Biddle Institute Points Officers a “beloved community.” to train black preachers and teachers. Chairperson – J. Charles Jones Biddleville began in 1871 as a village Vice-Chairperson – George Allen The vision is evident in the work of next to the college, distinctly separate Secretary – Jackie Jones people like Jan Gadsden, who lives from Charlotte, two miles from the center Treasurer – Julia Abernathy in Biddleville Townhome Condos a of the city. Board of Directors – few months out of the year, she said. George Allen Residents must work to help their Around the turn of the century, the city Carolyn Brown Linda Henderson communities to survive. Although grew out to meet the village. The suburbs of she is considered a part-time Charlotte Western Heights and Roslyn Heights were Willie Mae Jant Evelyn Turner resident, the 1955 JCSU graduate built, followed by the Smallwood Homes Sandra Bennett gets involved in helping her Biddleville and Crestview subdivisions after World Beatrice Green community. War II. Today, the whole area is called Ann Huey Biddleville/Smallwood/ Biddleville/Smallwood/Five Points, taking Billy Manning “It is good for me to be a part of my Five Points Neighborhood its name from the original village and from Janie McClure community; I love being here because leader Charles Jones the intersection of West Trade, West Fifth Lottie B. Scott it’s home,” she said. Frances Strong stands at the ‘‘ ll of these neighborhoods Street, Rozelles Ferry Road, and Beatties symbolic JCSU gate A LaForest Williams Just a few years ago, the Five Points Ford Road adjacent to the JCSU campus at the five points are still viable. Our goal for near the center of the neighborhood. Park located on French Street across intersection. from her home was an overgrown area full of drug activity. The neighborhood has several of the most historic buildings Instead of doing nothing about it, Gadsden wanted to return Biddleville/Smallwood/Five in the City of Charlotte – Biddle Hall, located on the the park to its original grandeur and purpose – a place for University campus, the Davis House and Mount Carmel families to enjoy. Points is to build a beloved Baptist Church. Working with the other residents and community groups, The Biddleville community always has had people fighting she convinced Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation community where all people to make sure that its residents get the best out of life. officials to cut down trees, put up lights, and install a colorful JCSU’s founders were two young white Presbyterian playground on the nine-acre property. can live together.” ministers, Rev. S. C. Alexander and Rev. W. L. Miller, who believed there was a need to train leaders for the “Everything that I have done has been with the assistance newly freed black population. of all the neighborhood associations in District 2 and Mrs. Louise Sellers,” Gadsden said. Jones is no exception to this line of visionary leaders. He has had an interest in making sure that the Biddleville/ Historical information in this article is from a report by Smallwood/Five Points area was sustained and that residents Dr. Thomas W. Hanchett.

12 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 13 West End Feature

Lovely Dalebrook 8 alebrook 8 By Kristian Coley D

he small education. Foxx was elected to Charlotte neighborhood City Council in 2005 and became mayor known as Dalebrook is in 2009. He has given back to all of the tucked away, hidden behind communities of Charlotte. Another proud the streets off of Beatties product of Dalebrook is Howard Barnhill Ford Road. In the late 1950s who was born and reared in the community; and early 1960s, the community he serves Francis Bailey Middle School as Twas built by its principal and served Charles Ervin of Charles in the North Carolina Ervin Construction. The General Assembly. The neighborhood includes community is proud of eight streets spanning both men’s service. from Gilbert Street to Holly Street. This close- One person creating knit community has been a more diverse and hidden for years, but many prominent neighborhood there believe it is their time is Sentron Nicholas, to shine. Dalebrook features the president of the lovely ranch homes with Dalebrook Neighborhood colorful shutters. Most of Association. He and the homes here are well his family moved to kept with manicured lawns. Dalebrook when he was This hidden treasure is a five years old.T oday, he beautiful surprise to many Dalebrook resides in that very home who are not aware of the Officers in which he grew up. neighborhood. President – Sentron Nicholas Nicholas is an Vice President – Briley Belk educator and works This community has not Treasurer – Dora Johnson been completely isolated Co-Secretary – Dorothy Ellis as an administrative during all of this time. It Co-Secretary – assistant and teacher’s has contributed to building Geraldine Johnson assistant at Lake Wylie a stable Beatties Ford Chaplain – F.J. Armstead Elementary School. Road Corridor such as Nicholas already has the Mecklenburg Health made efforts in improving Department, the Beatties Ford Road Bridge the neighborhood and over I-85, the University Shopping Center, getting the word out about Dalebrook. The and the Beatties Ford Road Library. Serving association has hosted yearly trips to the as a stimulus to change to several small Cherokee casino. “It’s to raise money for groups and small businesses is the Dalebrook the neighborhood.” Professional Center. The center has created Dalebrook Neighborhood a sense of self-containment in the The neighborhood hosts an annual picnic leaders pose at their community, and residents and former the third Saturday of September. They namesake road sign. residents of Dalebrook have been a driving provide scholarships for students, conduct esidents and former clean up campaigns, provide floats for the R force in the betterment of Charlotte. Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade and circulate residents of Dalebrook . . . Many of those residents are educators zoning petitions. The neighborhood now and political officials.O ne in particular is works tirelessly to bring money into the including Charlotte Mayor Charlotte’s Mayor Anthony Foxx, who grew community for infrastructure improvements up in the community. Raised in Dalebrook that appeal to existing and new Dalebrook by his mother and grandparents, Foxx residents. Nicholas looks forward to the Anthony Foxx, who grew up here understood the value of hard work and journey of improving and helping the service. His grandparents worked as neighborhood grow economically, and for . . . have been a driving force in educators, and he witnessed them give all to appreciate the lovely neighborhood up everything to ensure he had the best known as Dalebrook. the betterment of Charlotte.

14 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 15 West End Feature

8 leanore eights 8 Small but Strong E H By Marguerite Williams

leanore Heights comprises three streets, teenagers have to deal with in society. It could be good for seven blocks, and 55 houses south of both parties.” Rozzelle’s Ferry Road. As resident Lois D. The organization’s members also arrange Moore likes to say, “We for residents to participate in an annual are small but strong.” spring cleanup by passing out flyers and making it a community event. After just a short turn off that E Another important goal Moore identifies major industrial thoroughfare, a visitor encounters tall trees and spacious front is keeping the lines of communication yards, with neat brick and wood ranch open with the city and county. Their houses set on rolling hills – a little members have been to city council oasis tucked in behind the commercial meetings numerous times through the buildings that line Rozelle’s Ferry. It is years and currently are working with city a diverse, harmonious neighborhood officials to help determine the future of made up of African-Americans, a piece of vacant land. Formerly the site Asians, Somalians, and Caucasians. of the Coronet Apartments, the vacant Though there are many who have land would be ideal for senior housing, begun moving into the neighborhood, but so far Eleanore Heights Community there is a mix of housing types, with Eleanore Heights Association has not been able to make rentals, single-family homes, and Officers that possible. No agreement has been Habitat for Humanity houses. President – Lois D. Moore reached, but the community’s leaders Vice President – Giavanna Little plan to keep advocating for their vision. Moore was elected president of the Secretary – Frances Mickens neighborhood organization in 2000, Assistant Secretary – John Wilks The association also supports keeping after serving as vice president since Treasurer – Hadether Davenport the environment beautiful and clean Parliamentarian – John Cousar its inception in 1986. When Hattie by working with nearby businesses on Harris, the first president, moved away, Rozelle’s Ferry Road. Currently, they Moore, as one of the founders, willingly took on this new are negotiating with one businessman who has promised leadership role. The organization meets once a month at to plant a vegetative buffer, such as cedars, between his New Macedonia of Faith Church, and Moore is striving to site and the neighborhood to cut down on noise and to increase participation. improve the view. Eleanore Heights Community Incorporated was started One of the most important services of the association when neighbors went from house to house to form a Bible is bringing people together in fellowship. “We have a study. They enjoyed their time together and decided to back-to-school picnic for the children with hot dogs Eleanore Heights form a neighborhood association because they all wanted and homemade ice cream, and we distribute school Neighborhood leader the same things: a safe, crime-free place to live and the supplies that we are able to buy because of neighborhood Lois Moore at her home. strength that having a unified voice would give them in contributions. In the past at Thanksgiving time, we have leanore Heights Community dealing with issues. taken dinner to some of our seniors, and we make care E packages for the homeless population when the weather Association was started when They have worked in a number of areas to protect their turned cold. We have collected coats for the WSOC coat neighborhood. One is establishing a good relationship drive. We help whenever we see a need to be filled; and with their police officers. As Moore said, “We incorporate we have time for celebration, too,” said Moore. neighbors went from house to our officers into the life of our neighborhood. We want to know them and hope that they will get to know us Moore spent 36 years as an elementary classroom teacher. house for Bible study, enjoyed as people. We invite them to our annual Christmas Today, she offers tutoring free-of-charge to any of the potluck supper, and they seem to enjoy our good food Eleanore Heights’ elementary school children whose and hospitality. Sometimes they even ride their bicycles parents ask for her help. “I hope to make a difference. their time together and formed a through the neighborhood. And we believe that our I’m a disciplinarian, and I expect them to work, but officers could be the best role models possible for we have fun, too,” she said. neighborhood association. our youth.” Moore is proud of Eleanore Heights. “We are a pretty Consequently, the organization encourages officers to neighborhood in the spring and summer with nice yards. develop a trusting relationship with some of the boys who We are clean and crime free, where people like to live live in Eleanore Heights, acting as mentors and helping and want to protect their quality of life. This is where them learn courtesy and respect. “They could listen to our I live, and I’m going to give it the best I can.” With Moore boys and help them, while they learn the things that our at the helm, Eleanore Heights is in good hands.

16 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 17 West End Feature

Lincoln Heights Educates 8 incoln eights 8 Charlotte L H By Kristian Coley

community once called “Peaceful has declined, and safety has become problematic; Valley” was mostly farms and trees. however, it’s now reviving.” It wasn’t until the 1950s that the name was changed to Lincoln Heights. This The Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Association thriving community, has worked hard to turn things famous for its beautiful around by securing grants, overseeing vegetable gardens and rehabilitation projects, and Aflowers, spans from Gilbert Street conducting collaborative partnerships to Russell Street adjacent to and sponsoring community events. Beatties Ford Road. It had its Some of the events the association own barber shops, beauty salons, has initiated to bring back the stores, and churches. Lincoln neighborhood that was once known Heights was home to many for beautiful vegetable gardens and educators and influential African- flowers are theN ational Night Americans who contributed Out events against crime, back much of the success of Charlotte. to school festivals, community clean-up campaigns, and land Many of these inspiring residents beautification projects. built homes that still stand today. Riding through Lincoln Heights’ So many residents have pride in streets, visitors have to admire their community and faith that it the architecture that many Lincoln Heights will certainly become the Lincoln families built with their own Officers Heights it once was. One of those President – Thelma Byers-Bailey residents is Allegra Westbrook, a hands to be passed down to future Vice President – Sheryl Smith generations. While some were retired librarian. This witty, sharp- Secretary – Crystal Alford minded lady has dedicated her life modest bungalows with beautiful Treasurer – Mary Maxwell to improving the literacy of African- brick visage, some feature unique Asst. Treasurer – Walter Dial stone work. The community Parliamentarian – Lucille Batts Americans and was the first director is decorated with distinctly Board Member – Mary Cherry of the Brevard Street branch of the structured homes of all sorts. Board Member – LaVette Griffin Public Library in Charlotte, which Board Member – Owen Steele was the only library to which people Today, Lincoln Heights is considered a bedroom of color could go. She was dedicated community. Those who are originally from the to obtaining more quality books and supplies for neighborhood can appreciate the charm, which is the branch, and if she couldn’t get any help from Lincoln Heights why they never left. Attorney Thelma Byers-Bailey, organizations, it would spend out of her own pocket. Neighborhood leaders president of the Lincoln Heights Neighborhood She spent decades spreading the gospel of reading pose at the Beatties Ford Association, is one of the residents who cherishes by speaking at various events, partnering with Road Library & Learning community once called a childhood spent in the community. The home organizations, and creating a bookmobile. She drove Resource Center. A she now occupies is the one her parents built in it to schools and throughout the community to pass 1955. Byers-Bailey remembers as a child the fun out books to children of color. Westbrook recalls “Peaceful Valley” was mostly she had playing in the framework of homes under being told to leave the parking lot of a school by construction, such as the home of the late Dr. the superintendent and pleading with him “but the farms and trees. It wasn’t until Alexander, and spending much of her time at the black children don’t have any books.” She laughs home of Beatrice “Precious” Wilson. Wilson owned about it now. Many of the children and parents the 1950s that the name was one of the oldest homes in Lincoln Heights and one waited for Westbrook and the bookmobile, and she of the largest. The home still stands today and serves was always there giving out books and promoting changed to Lincoln Heights. the community as a salon and spa. the importance of reading. In reminiscing about her career in Charlotte, Westbrook stated “I preferred Over the years, the neighborhood has changed to work at a public library that served people from from the peaceful place where Byers-Bailey grew up. all walks of life.” Today, Westbrook is retired and Many of the original homeowners have passed away. recently celebrated her 89th birthday. She has been While some of the homes continue to be occupied highly honored for her work in the community and by family members. Many have been put up for rent. says “just let me rest now.” But her work will never Byers-Bailey said “the character of the neighborhood be forgotten.

18 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 19 West End Feature

8 cCrorey eights 8 Celebrating the Past, M H Framing the Future By Benny L. Smith

hen O’Dell Robinson, Sr. graduated Johnson neighborhood through eminent domain and built the Vest Water C. Smith University in 1950, he didn’t know Treatment Plant which was the only treatment plant in Charlotte- where he wanted to live. But as fate would have Mecklenburg until 1959. The land, now used for the plant, was it, Robinson became one of the first residents formerly a park/recreation area in front of land plots designated for of Charlotte’s historic black residences. McCrorey did not want his investment neighborhood, McCrorey Heights. in land negatively impacted, but neighborhood association representatives said the city did not JCSU’s fifth president,D r. H.L. McCrorey, share the same vision for land plots owned by Wbought more than 155 acres of land adjacent black residents. The treatment plant, easily visible to the University after World War II for 50 cents an from Beatties Ford Road, blocks motorists from acre. He developed the land with special intentions. seeing a good part of the neighborhood. “He told me that before he released the land to During the 1970s, the layout of the community anyone else, he wanted Smith students to have first changed with the advent of the Brookshire choice,” Robinson said. “When he showed me the Freeway. The freeway divided the neighborhood neighborhood there were only three homes and a in half, with people living in the southern part lot of trees.” of the neighborhood having to relocate. Robinson made a decision to build his life in McCrorey Heights and offered to pay McCrorey Beard said some literally uprooted their homes $15 a month until the lot was paid for in full. and transported them to Hyde Park. No homes McCrorey advised him that owning land is “one were left in the impacted areas. of the best investments that you can make.” McCrorey Heights Later, more of the original owners continued to Officers leave, causing the quality of life in McCrorey Many of Charlotte’s preeminent President – preachers, teachers, and doctors such Natalie Kennedy Beard Heights to suffer. Abandoned homes, absentee as Rev. J.A. DeLaine, Reginald Hawkins, Vice President & Team Leader, landlords, and negligent renters took their toll Neighborhood Protection – on a once vibrant community. Charles Bell, and Julius Chambers had Didier Ambroise homes in McCrorey Heights. Most Secretary & Team Leader, So how have the lessons of the past influenced of the 1920s homes still stand in Neighborhood Improvement/ Beautification – current initiatives of McCrorey Heights pristine condition. Rosemary Lawrence Neighborhood Association? The community Financial Secretary & Team is led by a strong neighborhood association that McCrorey Heights Neighborhood Leader, Neighborhood Association President Natalie Beard said Improvement/Beautification – revised the 1949 protective covenants to reflect people formerly referred to this historic Eliza Ross current regulatory advancements in city code Treasurer – O’Dell Robinson, Sr. requirements, along with the historical integrity neighborhood as “the Gold Coast.” Chaplain & Team Leader, McCrorey Heights Neighborhood Improvement/ and culture of the neighborhood. Young families Neighborhood leaders Beard said the thread that binds the Beautification – are once again choosing the neighborhood as early formation of McCrorey Heights William Covington their home. look at Center city Vision Team Leader, Courtesy/Amenities 2020 plans for the West he current focus of the was the development of Charlotte, along & Social Hospitality – End. T with influence of higher education/ Edith Shearin “We chose McCrorey Heights because we felt McCrorey Heights Neighborhood development of JCSU, to meet housing it was the cleanest of all the historically black needs of black faculty and JCSU alumni. neighborhoods, and it had that nice, warm, old feel to it,” said Didier “DJ” Ambroise. Association is to preserve their “The whole problem with segregation in one’s religion was challenged after the end of slavery,” Beard said during Ambroise, 35, and his wife Cynthia moved into the neighborhood an interview inside her McCrorey Heights home. in 2005 and said it has been the right choice for them and their three neighborhood’s history and children, twins Aniyah and Ariel, and four-month old Yahmir. Freed slaves worshiped in the balcony of First Presbyterian improve the quality of life for on Trade Street. After a period of time, a parishioner, The current focus of the McCrorey Heights Neighborhood Kathleen Hayes, organized a Sunday walk out. The freed Association is to preserve their neighborhood’s history and improve slaves later organized their own Catawba Presbytery with the quality of life for its residents. The association is working with the its residents. the help of Pennsylvania white missionaries. JCSU and city to implement the Neighborhood Improvement Project. It also is the former Seventh Street Presbyterian Church served as involved in the Center City Vision 2020 for uptown development, place for blacks to worship. They then needed a place to the Historic West End Neighborhood Development, and JCSU’s live, which is where McCrorey Heights was able to help. revitalization of the Beatties Ford Road Corridor. In 1924, the city of Charlotte acquired land in the This article features information from an article by Dr. Shana Benjamin.

20 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 21 West End Feature

Respect for the Past, 8 aklawn ark 8 Hope for the Future O P By Marguerite Williams

hen Aaron Sanders was elected The preamble reads, “We, the residents of Oaklawn vice president of the Oaklawn Park, in order to form and promote neighborliness Park Community Improvement and friendship among ourselves, work out solutions to Association, he had come full circle common problems, to influence wholesome attitudes back to the neighborhood of his youth. among ourselves and our children, and to disseminate After a lifetime of travels and a career in the helpful information, do establish this constitution.” telecommunications industry, he lives again Win the house in where he grew up. Sanders foresees a bright future for the neighborhood. He and fellow residents are trying Oaklawn Park was fully developed to build on what was created when veterans returned from World by their far-sighted parents, War II and needed homes. Many were encouraging 45-50 year-olds to built using the GI Bill. According return and make improvements to to Sanders, “These were nice, solid older homes. Many have realized brick homes. My parents’ house dates that Oaklawn Park has better from 1958, but some were there much mortgages, some with houses that earlier and were mostly wooden parents have paid for, and that it is homes. All of it was rural, like a safe place to raise their families. Dilworth and Myers Park.” He proudly points out there are He remembers a thriving place, with many notable people who have kids everywhere running in the woods chosen to call Oaklawn Park and playing in the streets with his home. “We have some wonderful friends. “All of us Baby Boomers who younger families – two Morehead grew up in Oaklawn had a perfect scholars live in this neighborhood place to play. Sitting inside and Oaklawn Park – one is a public defender. One watching the television just wasn’t an Officers lady has been a piano teacher for option. It is still a great place to raise Vice President – Aaron Sanders over 50 years, training her students a family and to feel safe and supported Treasurer – Roselyn Dixon to be classical pianists, and they Financial Secretary – by your friends and neighbors.” Elaine Brown are in orchestras and churches around the world. We have a With the beautifully manicured former assistant superintendent for Oaklawn Park Cemetery at its border, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, the neighborhood feels forested and cloistered, even who is devoted to kids. He returned to a local school though it is only minutes from the spires of uptown to help out as a principal in the trenches.” Charlotte. The topography is hilly and elevated, Oakview Terrace making for great views of Charlotte’s center. The The organization has other goals. It hopes to bring Neighborhood leader tiled dome roof of the mausoleum is an architectural more computer technology to the neighborhood. Aaron Sanders gem and acts as a centerpiece to the cemetery. “We The group also encourages more people to become n behalf of the Oaklawn hold a bi-annual summer reunion in the park next involved in the green agenda with more recycling, O to the cemetery, and there is a huge turnout for that. ride sharing, and energy savings. “The African- Park Community Improvement Everyone is welcome, whether or not they buy a American struggle has always meant that we helped ticket. The park is full. Oaklawn Park has generated each other and shared resources, so we’re green out Organization, Sanders invites loyalty among its residents, both past and present,” of necessity. Caring for each other is really the green Sanders said. agenda,” Sanders said. everyone to come and enjoy the The visionaries, who wrote and agreed upon the On behalf of the Oaklawn Park Community constitution that founded the Oaklawn Park Improvement Organization, Sanders invites everyone beauty of his neighborhood, even Community Improvement Association, built the to come and enjoy the beauty of his neighborhood, concept of caring into its by-laws. These residents even those who do not live there. The white were a mixture of working class citizens, first-time dogwoods in the spring are thick along Oaklawn those who do not live there. homeowners, professional educators, physicians, Avenue. In the fall the trees are full of orange, gold, social workers, and ministers. and red leaves. And year-round, hope is in the air.

22 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 23 West End Feature

8 akview errace 8 More Than Meets O T the Eye By Kristian Coley

akview Terrace, located near neighborhood association in 1994. He Interstate 85 and Brookshire has continued efforts with the CMPD in Freeway, is a neighborhood that enhancing the neighborhood. promises more than one can Cowans’ tireless work on see at a glance. behalf of the neighborhood OEstablished in the has paid off. Habitat 1960s, one of the unseen for Humanity has built but important aspects many homes there, which of the neighborhood is according to Cowans, the tireless work of its “enhance the quality of life, residents to build a more a sense of ownership.” The stable environment for the neighborhood’s Solomon neighborhood’s families Park has been renovated, and children. making Oakview Terrace a more desirable place for A fearless and headstrong newcomers. He said the resident, Virginia Anthony, neighborhood is “not at-risk known as “the pioneer of anymore. Look at where we the neighborhood,” has come from and where we fought many battles to Oakview are today.” clean up the streets and Terrace improve the neighborhood Officers But not all is done. Cowans that she has called home President – Thomas Cowans still works towards a vision for many years. Anthony Vice President – Moses Davis of a “proud environment was not afraid to protect Secretary/Treasurer – promoting unity, individual Rosa Stevenson her neighborhood in acceptance, and respect, any way she could. and ownership towards a She performed most more common good for of the foundational work and brought ourselves and others.” In creating this vision, improvements, accomplishing many the neighborhood has formed partnerships of Oakview Terrace’s goals. with Commander Cochran and Officer Blake Hollar, a team that set out to reduce Anthony set out to bring public criminal activity and create community Oakview Terrace transportation to the neighborhood. She, safety and has become a dependable resource Neighborhood leader and other residents, reached out to the for the residents of Oakview Terrace. visits Soloman Park. Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Cochran continues to be involved in he neighborhood’s vision is to get a bus stop in the area. As a result, maintaining a neighborhood that residents T residents were able pursue jobs and enhance are proud to call home, while Officer Hollar a “proud environment promoting their quality of life. Under the leadership has been promoted and transferrred to of Anthony, Oakview Terrace has formed another division. a longstanding relationship with the unity, individual acceptance, and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Cowans hopes for funding for beautification to help combat illegal activity. projects and benches at the bus stops, but respect, and ownership towards a mostly wants all to appreciate the serious After many years of being so dedicated to transition of Oakview Terrace and to Oakview Terrace, Anthony was succeeded involve the residents in the future of more common good for ourselves by Thomas Cowans as president of the the neighborhood. and others.”

24 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 25 West End Feature

8 eversville 8 A Journey That’s Come Full S Circle and Gone Beyond By J’Tanya Adams and Craig Lovallen

eversville, one of the Queen City’s School (replacing the Seversville School) and original ring villages, was a bustling the Wallace Pruitt Recreation Center (formerly streetcar community developed around named Phillip O. Berry). Adjacent to the center a country store on property owned by is Seversville Park, a playground, spacious playing Henry Clontz Severs. fields, and the lushI rwin and Stewart The village spanned Creek Greenway System with routes Sfrom Wesley Heights Way to three destinations. One route flows (formerly Tuckaseegee from Tuckaseegee Road through Road) to Rozzelle’s Ferry Wesley Heights under Interstate 77, Road and was bounded linking to Frazier Park and ending at by West Trade Street. Rays Splash Planet (an indoor water Its streetcar line provided park). A second route terminates on service from Charlotte Freedom Drive, while a third path Center City to Biddleville, continues to the Wesley Heights Biddle Institute (now Greenway, that ends at the Bank Johnson C. Smith of America football stadium. Univeristy) and Seversville, as well as other white Wallace Pruitt, president of the areas. Today, Seversville Seversville Community Organization, is a multifaceted is delighted to see his community neighborhood that come full circle and go beyond. is slated to regain Seversville Today, his multicultural community its place as an urban Officers has surpassed its segregated beginnings. streetcar community. President – Wallace Pruitt Nestled along tree-lined streets under Vice President – Joe Graham the city skyline are quaint bungalows Secretary – Juanita Crawford and luxurious homes with roomy Seversville Village’s Treasurer – Louise Pruitt beginning was not one backyards. These dwellings (listing of diversity. The urban up to the mid $400,000s) are renewal destruction of inhabited by singles, retirees, Second Ward, affectionately and families. known as “Brooklyn,” ushered in the massive shift Seversville is continuing its tradition of partnering of Charlotte’s black population into the Historic with others. Together, Seversville, Biddleville- Seversville Neighborhood West End in the 1960s. During this time, the Smallwood, and Wesley Heights began the Historic leader Wallace Pruitt neighborhood was quiet, children attended the West End Urban Cultural Arts Association (The Seversville School, and Five Points boasted a Historic West End Partners, Inc. 2010) to define estled along tree-lined Broadway Furniture Company, Bass grocery store, the Urban Cultural Arts District (streetscape N the Ice House, a restaurant, a service station, and between I-77 and Five Points) now the Historic Seversville streets under the bus service, along with other amenities. As middle West End Partners, Inc. In August 2009, this union working class blacks transitioned into the area, the yielded the Historic West End Market (an open owners fled, selling and renting their properties for air cultural venue) under the direction of J’Tanya city skyline are quaint less. The increased quantity of affordable, unkept Adams, a Seversville resident. housing stock attracted tenants with undesirable bungalows and luxurious associates and activities to the community. By the The community’s charge is echoed to the masses early 1980s, the neighborhood no longer appealed by JCSU President Dr. Ronald L. Carter. The to middle class families. University’s bold initiative to move beyond its homes with roomy backyards. gates by erecting the Arts Factory along Beatties This brought about the “Taking Back Our Ford Road is evidence that the Historic West End Neighborhood” project initiated by the residents, will become a destination place.The Seversville local churches, civic groups, the school system, and neighborhood is joining with the University and local government. The project focused on restoring other neighborhoods along the corridor to lead the the community. This movement birthed the joint charge for the revitalization and renewed economic building of the Bruns Avenue Elementary vitality of the area.

26 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 27 West End Feature

Taylor/LaSalle: Providing a 8 aylor / asalle 8 Residence for Decades T L By Benny L. Smith

udie Goins is an interesting woman. Instead, the street is filled with several rental properties. Still, Goins likes her neighborhood. After graduating from Johnson C. Smith University in 1941 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, she “It’s a peaceful neighborhood,” she said. “You don’t have a lot of married her college sweetheart, Harry people bothering you.” Goins, Sr. The couple decided to settle down and raise a family on Taylor Avenue, Lillian Roberts, 90, started the Taylor/LaSalle S Community Organization more than 20 years ago just a few miles away from their alma mater. because she saw her neighborhood’s quality of life He had his own bar, working until the wee declining. hours and also managed the Zodiac Band. She worked as a third grade teacher. Both “My mother is a fighter and strong leader,” said raised their son Harry Goins, Jr. Robert’s daughter, Gwendolyn Roberts. “She started the community organization after she started seeing Today, the sharp-minded 91-year-old former people sell drugs in front of her house.” teacher occasionally drives to play cards with friends. She taught for 30 years at Gwendolyn moved back to Charlotte 25 years ago Lincoln Heights Elementary and Double from Atlanta for better career opportunities and Oaks Elementary, retiring from Long Creek to take care of her family. Her mother currently Elementary. The amazing thing is that she is recuperating from a long illness. did most of these things while residing in the same residence on Taylor Avenue. She said her mother also was responsible Taylor/Lasalle for discovering an abandoned slave “I have lived here for 53 years,” Sudie said. is currently cemetery adjacent to the entrance Everything in her home has its own special reorganizing its of University Park Creative Arts place, and you can’t help but wonder about neighborhood Elementary School. The discovery has all the marvelous things that have happened association. helped some people to connect with the at the residence since she moved there. final resting place of their ancestors. She and her husband purchased a vacant lot and built the modest The Roberts family was similar to the Goins family. two-bedroom home in 1957 that now sits at the corner of LaSalle They, too, were one of the first families to locate on Street and Taylor Avenue. Encompassed by an ornate, decorative the road. Gwendolyn remembers a happier time in Taylor/LaSalle brick wall, Goins remembers a time when she didn’t have as many the community growing up as a child. Neighborhood Resident neighbors. “Our neighbors were not just neighbors, they were e thought we would be “There were no houses here except one across the street that had family,” she said. “When my mom and dad needed ‘‘W burned down and another one down the street occupied by Rev. a babysitter, the oldest child in the community Jenkins who went to Johnson C. Smith too,” Goins said. would come and sit with us. The kids were good, out here by ourselves, but you and there were no problems with drugs or alcohol. She said the rest of the land in the area was wooded, which was I don’t think we locked our doors.” see what has happened to it. why she and her husband bought the house on Taylor Avenue. “We thought we would be out here by ourselves, but you see what has Gwendolyn said it wasn’t until the late 1950s happened to it. Everything seemed to have built up around us.” that La Salle Street emerged. Before that time, Everything seemed to have built Goins said the area really started developing in the late 1960s and there was only a wooded area. The Mecklenburg up around us.” the early 1970s. At that time, developers wanted to place small County Library branch for the western part of brick rental properties on Taylor Avenue, but the Goins resisted the community was also located in the old police because they didn’t want their property value to decrease. station location off La Salle Street. Her mother said she would always have her children pick up After her husband attended a city council meeting to express his trash in the community on Saturdays to show opinion, he came back satisfied because he was told that developers their pride. were going to build nice two-to-three bedroom homes on the streets so that property values would not drop. Today, the community is looking for leadership in its younger residents so that Taylor/LaSalle can That didn’t happen. continue to be a safe place to live.

28 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 29 West End Feature

8 niversity ark 8 Developing a Recipe for Success U P By Marguerite Williams

the swimming pool at West Charlotte for our neighborhood he 2003 bylaws of the University kids with it staying open more hours and with classes where Park Neighborhood Association state they can learn to swim. And we support more after-school that the association tutoring opportunities at the recreation “shall be concerned center,” Bowser explained. with the community and economic development, The City of Charlotte undertook a “Quality T ecology, transportation, of Life Study” several years ago and the health, education, safety, results were disappointing for University and other related matters Park residents. It was designated a that indirectly and directly “challenged neighborhood” in some areas, will affect the quality and the association is determined to make and character of the improvements to receive better ratings. neighborhood.” The study evaluates the community using a number of factors — its physical nature, North Carolina State economic indicators, crime occurrences, Representative Kelly and social life. M. Alexander, Jr. was an early participant in Bowser told how the association is using the association, which the study to address some of the problems. began in the 1960s. Univeristy Park “As our residents get up in age, their houses With participation from Officers might become rentals and not receive residents, he helped write President – Percell Bowser proper maintenance. That can be hard for and approve the first set of Vice President – Carolyn Fuller a neighborhood. County code enforcement bylaws. Current association Secretary – Janine Shipman officers are located right in theN orthwest president Percell Bowser Treasurer – Helen Floyd Neighborhoods Services Center building, Financial Secretary – and the association is collaborating with believes that those bylaws Thomas Sowell have served them well. them to help people follow the codes and “These ideals are relevant make improvements to their houses.” for us today.” University Park is glad to participate and volunteer with Bowser’s involvement with the association the other neighborhood associations, that meet at the began more than 40 years ago when he moved Northwest Neighborhoods Services Center, realizing it to University Park, allowing him to know and makes them stronger politically when they can speak work with the association’s many leaders. “J.C. with a unified voice. Champion was our first president, andE leanor University Park Washington served in that capacity for many When issues have arisen, such as the potential loss of Neighborhood leaders years. Then came Hattie Anthony, who was community policing, they went as one group to speak to responsible for bringing in the Neighborhood city council. “We fought to keep our community police oncerned with the community Farmers’ Market on Saturdays. Hattie also officer who reports to our group every month. We appreciate C our officers so much that we purchased 11 bicycles and all worked with the Fighting Back Program. and economic development, Our neighborhood has had three other great the equipment for them through our dues and fundraising. presidents: Willie Flemming, Kelly Alexander, With West Charlotte right here, our officers help us keep ecology, transportation, health, and Carolyn Fuller. I will try to keep up, as the kids in school and out of trouble.” much as I can, with their model.” Making a real difference is a goal for Bowser and the education, safety, and other related Bowser, who served as the group’s financial members of the association. When asked to describe success secretary before being elected president, can for the University Park community, Bowser had a list matters that indirectly and directly be found every Thursday delivering Friendship —improve the quality of life, keep youth in school, and leave Trays. A retired high school science teacher and the challenged rating behind. He envisions a future that assistant principal, he has a wealth of leadership includes the return of the trolley to his neighborhood, which will affect the quality and character experience with a number of local, state, and will increase positive retail development along the Beatties national organizations. Ford Road Corridor. “We’ll get organized and talk to the of the neighborhood. people who can help us do that,” he said. “We’ll make a One of the issues of concern is the plan and we’ll work the plan. If we pinpoint our activities, neighborhood’s relationship with West we can make a real difference.” Charlotte High School located in the core of the neighborhood. “We hope to better utilize A recipe for success if ever there were one.

30 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 31 West End Feature

The Unity of Washington Heights 8 ashington eights 8 By Kristian Coley W H

ashington Heights is a neighborhood her feel a part of something when the neighbors went out that has “so much to offer,” said Ruth Pleas, of their way to greet her. a newcomer to this historic neighborhood. She added that its sense of community led her The residents consider themselves more like a family than to make it her new home. just neighbors. Washington Heights is often Originally from Ohio, she always described as one of those rare communities Wwanted to experience living in a historic that prays and cares together, as well as African-American neighborhood. “It networks to share resources. Its residents are was everything I wanted.” firm believers in community building and enjoying each other’s company. With a historical legacy dating back to 1910, Washington Heights is the first The community has created traditions neighborhood built for middle-income such as taking trips once a year to the blacks and the only original streetcar Valle Crucis Conference Center and helping suburb in all of North Carolina. Nestled community children write “Dear God” letters in the back streets of Beatties Ford Road, on Sundays. Community and education are just miles from Uptown, this handsome vital responsibilities of Washington Heights, neighborhood features eye-catching demonstrated by the Washington Heights and beautiful vintage homes. The Youth Services Academy’s after-school architecture and Southern charm of its tutorial/ leadership programs and partnerships homes and commercial buildings makes with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools and it one of Charlotte’s most attractive Time Warner Cable to bring computer access historical districts. to the neighborhood. Washington Heights One of the most architecturally and Officers One of the neighborhood’s most crucial historically interesting commercial President – Mattie Marshall partnerships is with the Charlotte- buildings that is still standing is the Vice-President – Maxine Martin Mecklenburg Police Department. The Excelsior Club. This club is an example Secretary – Deborah Alexander neighborhood celebrated its grand opening of Charlotte’s best Art Modern Treasurer – Ruth Pleas of a new division in September 2009. architecture, its white concrete finish The local officers have a sense of pride in and black accent is a sight to remember. keeping the neighborhood safe. Residents Built in 1946, it was owned and operated by Jimmy McKee. speak on how active they are in the community, attending During the 1950s and 1960s, the club became a meeting neighborhood meetings and handling any concerns place for influential African-Americans and political leaders. the residents may have. This beautiful addition to the Washington Heights Today, it still continues to be a landmark, and every weekend community brings a sense of security to them. Neighborhood leader you can see people lining up in extravagant suits and dresses The partnerships Washington Heights have formed are speaks with Charlotte waiting to get in. police officers. ith a historical legacy critical in achieving their goals. Marshall explains how a W Living in an inner city community, Washington Heights small community has limited resources, so grants are needed residents have a vision to “develop and maintain an for various projects, “If you don’t have the money, you better dating back to 1910, Washington attractive, historic neighborhood that has a variety of stable know how to get it.” She wants Washington Heights to housing opportunities and safe pedestrian friendly streets be a more modern and tech savvy community. It has used Heights is the first neighborhood that provides access to jobs, parks, transit, schools, businesses government financing and strong partnerships to build and other resources.” They plan to build on a sense of pride affordable housing. Nia Point apartments is a project that built for middle-income blacks, and place to make it an even better neighborhood to live, brings pride to the community. Named after the Kwanzaa work, and play. Mattie Marshall, on staff at Johnson C. concept of “purpose,” Nia Point consists of two- and three- Smith University and president of the Washington Heights bedroom garden apartments and town homes. It gives families and the only original streetcar Community Association, is proud of her community. the opportunity to live in contemporary, and affordable The neighborhood began to revitalize by initiating an luxury apartments. These beautiful apartments add a sense of suburb in all of North Carolina. action plan in 2002 adopted by the city council. “You purpose and pride as the neighborhood moves forward. don’t have to move to live in a better neighborhood; it’s the power of the people,” she explained. The community of Washington Heights has accomplished a lot in achieving their vision. Though they are still in “And its residents are what make this community inviting,” the process of building the best neighborhood they can, Pleas said. She explained the warm welcome she received historic Washington Heights is an important part of when moving to the community three years ago, making Charlotte’s future.

32 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 33 West End Feature

8 esley eights 8 Faithful to History and to W H Each Other By Marguerite Williams

esley Heights is one of five neighborhoods, to ask the city to have dedicated funding neighborhoods in Charlotte that or the preservation, maintenance, and importantly, has been designated a “Local Historic replacement of our tree canopies.” District” by the city council “in recognition of their importance The association also encourages the ongoing renovation in the history and character of of older homes in keeping with the city.” the community’s character, while W maintaining diversity and adding Located on the Westside, Wesley Heights was to the younger population. Thomas listed on the National Register of Historic Places understands that Wesley Heights in 1994, in part because much of the original will continue to grow and prosper character of its early development in the 1920s with children living there. He does and 1930s is still intact. The predominant not recall there being so many baby housing type is the Craftsman-style bungalow, carriages along the sidewalks when and then in the 1930s, builders added Tudor he moved there three years ago. Revival and Colonial Revival. And the Association is pleased that a Mommy’s group has been formed There are 356 houses in Wesley Heights, mostly that meets once a month. located on four major streets: Walnut Avenue, South Summit Avenue, Woodruff Place, and There are many events and programs Grandin Road. West Morehead, I-77, and Wesley sponsored by the association, from Heights Way bound it, making it a self-contained the annual neighborhood clean up district that is only 1.5 miles from the corner of Wesley Heights to an Arbor Day festival. This past Trade and Tryon Streets in uptown Charlotte. Officers Halloween, they had their first parade President – Steve Thomas for kids to march in costume along The president of the Wesley Heights Community First Vice President – the greenway on Littaker Avenue Association, Steve Thomas, moved there over Stephen Nett next to Frazier Park. three years ago. “Our house is new. But because Second Vice President – Peggy Howey we followed the strict guidelines for building Treasurer – Stacy Rogers The annual Christmas party is often in an historic district, it looks like it has always Recording Secretary – held at the George Pierce Wadsworth been here. People have even asked us when we Valaida Fullwood Estate on South Summit Avenue, finished our renovation. We are glad for those Financial Secretary – which was designed by a well-known Anita Mobley guidelines because it keeps the neighborhood local architect, Louis H. Asbury and Wesley Heights consistent in beauty and design. And we are so built by E.C. Griffith in 1911. After Neighborhood leaders close to work in downtown that I can actually walk there numerous ownership changes, Judge Shirley L. Fulton, a tour the neighborhood on nice days.” resident of Wesley Heights, purchased it in 2001 and restored he neighborhood’s vision is much of the main house to its original glory, creating an T Though Thomas moved to Charlotte from Dayton, Ohio, events and conference center. It is a source of great pride a “proud environment promoting 10 years ago, he did not know about Wesley Heights until for the neighborhood. more recently. “I didn’t know that such a wonderful place existed right in the shadow of downtown until a friend Thomas points to the fact that he has inherited great unity, individual acceptance, and introduced us to it. Through our friend, we met community momentum achieved by past presidents, and he hopes to members right away. In fact, before we moved in, we realized continue their fine work. He is determined the Wesley Heights respect, and ownership towards a that we knew more people in Wesley Heights than we had for Community Association will play a role with the city in the whole time we lived in the suburbs. People here want to planning for the Fourth Street extension from Johnson and more common good for ourselves live in a community and are open to establishing meaningful Wales University. “We are lucky to live here and we hope relationships. It almost feels like a small town.” to increase the visibility of our neighborhood in Charlotte, maybe through a home tour. We want to establish good and others.” Thomas and the community association face a number relationships with builders and developers to ensure that of important issues in keeping that open, warm feeling everything conforms to the historic guidelines and our goal alive. Huge, stately trees abound, creating a gothic archway of being a safe, happy place for people of all ages and races.” over many of the streets, and the health of these trees is of great interest to them. “We are taking an active role Wesley Heights, then and now, — one imagines that the in a grassroots effort, along with several surrounding founders would be pleased to hear their vision is still intact.

34 Community Engagement 2010 JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY 35 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Charlotte’s Premier Independent Urban University Charlotte, NC Permit No. 1106

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. .edu jcsu100 Beatties Ford Road Charlotte, North Carolina 28216 Vibrant 8 ave these ates 8 Neighborhoods S D in the Historic West End S y m p o s i u m Thursday & Friday, November 4-5, 2010 The Park, 800 Briar Creek Road, Charlotte, NC Black/Minority Males Taking Flight Through Personal Development, Knowledge Sharing and Commitment to Community

ohnson C. Smith University and Livingstone College invite you to attend a two-day, pre-game symposium. This joint initiative will address issues, opportunities, and actions related to the JBlack/Minority male crisis in the U.S. Confirmed Speakers: • Dr. Maya Angelou • • Dr. Ronny Bell • Fabian De Rozario • • Stedman Graham • Captain Barrington Irving • • Mike Minter • Donnie Shell •

Topics: • Health & Wellness • Relationship Development • • Leadership Development • Gang & Violence Prevention • This event serves as the precursor to the 2nd Annual Commemorative Classic football game that continues this 118 year old rivalry and celebrates the birth of Black college football. Game: JCSU vs. Livingstone College Saturday, November 6, 1:00 p.m. Memorial Stadium, 310 N. Kings Drive, Charlotte, NC

For more information: commemorativeclassic.com

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