Explore the rich history, culture, and lasting impact of Black communities in Downtown Raleigh through this curated guide. From meaningful landmarks and historic sites to memorials and public art, each stop highlights the people, stories, and achievements that have shaped downtown and continue to influence Raleigh today.
We encourage you all to continue supporting Black entrepreneurs, perspectives, history, and culture in Downtown Raleigh not just this month, but year round. Learn more about local Black history through “Historic Black Neighborhoods of Raleigh” by Carmen Wimberly Cauthen.
Landmarks
Black Main Street | E Hargett St.
Raleigh’s Black Main Street emerged as a commercial district in the 1920s-1930s on East Hargett Street from Fayetteville Street to Blount Street. East Hargett Street, like other Black Main Streets across the country, evolved as segregation laws hardened in the early part of the century. At its height, Black Main Street had nearly 50 black owned businesses.
Mechanics and Farmers Bank | 13 E Hargett St.
Founded in 1907 in Durham by 9 community leaders, Raleigh’s branch opened in 1923 on Black Main Street. Today, M&F Bank still has a branch on E. Hargett St and is the second oldest minority-owned bank in the United States.
NC Freedom Park | 218 N Wilmington St.
NC Freedom Park is North Carolina's first urban greenspace honoring the African American struggle for liberation. Located at the heart stands a distinctive sculpture known as the "Beacon of Freedom." This sculpture is made to illuminate the surroundings each night, symbolizing hope and self-determination.
Shaw University, Estey Hall | 721 S Wilmington St.
Estey Hall was the first structure built for the higher education of African American women in the United States and is the oldest surviving building on Shaw University’s campus.
St. Agnes Hospital | 1300 Sarah Hunter Ln.
Sitting on the campus of Saint Augustine’s University are the dilapidated ruins of Saint Agnes Hospital — one of the first medical centers and nursing training schools for Black Americans.
John Chavis Memorial Park and Community Center | 505 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
Chavis Park was developed as a “separate but equal” recreation facility but is now a modern community gathering place for all residents. The John Chavis Memorial Park Aquatic Center is the latest addition to the park coming within the next few years.
Pope House Museum | 511 S Wilmington St.
The Pope House Museum was the home of North Carolina’s 1st licensed African American doctor and influential community leader, Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope.
South Park Heritage Trail | South Park Cultural District, Various Locations in Downtown Raleigh
The proposed South Park Heritage Trail is an approximately two-mile cultural trail that will share the story of one of Raleigh’s biggest historically Black neighborhoods. Located within the South Park Cultural District, the trail will highlight the people, places, and events that shaped the community while increasing awareness of its lasting impact on Downtown Raleigh’s growth. Once complete, the trail will serve as both an educational resource and a meaningful way to experience this neighborhood’s history firsthand.
Public Art
LeVelle Moton | Sean Kernick + Adam Williams
As a tribute to NCCU's men’s basketball coach and community leader LeVelle Moton, this mural features Mr. Moton surrounded by his family, championship trophies, and organizations he helped shape.
Like Father, Like Son | Dare Coulter
This mural depicts an iconic image of Black fatherhood in a viral moment captured between rapper Busta Rhymes and his son.
Ann and Allen Iverson | Steve Powers
As a "shoutout to moms everywhere" artist Steve "ESPO" Powers re-created a scene where Allen Iverson has his hair braided courtside by his mother Ann during an actual game.
Black Main Street Murals | TJ Mundy
A sidewalk mural project paying homage to E Hargett Street's legacy as Raleigh’s Black Main Street.
John Lewis | Jalel Ronin
In memory of Civil Rights leader and Congressman John Lewis.
Glimpses of the Promised Land | Mike Roig
Standing tall at the entrance of John Chavis Memorial Park is this metal sculpture symbolizing freedom with its depiction of the brave, honorable Tuskegee Airmen amongst a flock of steel birds.
Shaw University 150th Anniversary | Scott Nurkin
Installed in celebration of the historic HBCU Shaw University's 150th anniversary.
The Mount Rapmore of the 2010s | Jeks One
This piece of public art honors modern rap legends including NC's very own J. Cole.
Morgan Street Jazz Monsters of NC | Kevin Lyons
Artist Kevin Lyons pays homage to iconic musicians from the Tar Heel State; Nina Simone, J. Cole, Rapsody, Thelonious Monk, 9th Wonder, and more.
Exhibitions
The Magic of the Fourth Ward: A Journey Through Time and Culture | Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts
On display at downtown's historic Performing Arts Center, The Magic of the Fourth Ward is an exhibit showcasing the past, present, and future of Raleigh's Fourth Ward neighborhood. The exhibit is open during all public performances at the Martin Marietta Center as well as the first Thursday of each month from 11am-2pm.
Living in Color | Dix Park Chapel, Dorothea Dix Park
Tuesday, February 3rd – Saturday, February 28th
Living in Color is an annual, month-long display of visual art representing the experience of people of color living in the south.