Orange County Insight March 2022

New African American Historical Commemorative Park Planned in the Town of Orange, County Staff Attend Groundbreaking Ceremony

By: Orange County Communications Department

A crowd gathered on a chilly Valentine ’ s Day afternoon at a lot located at the corner of Church and Chapman streets in the Town of Orange. The assembly was there to witness a historic groundbreaking ceremony to begin the process of creating an African American Historic

Commemorative Park on the site. Remarks were opened by Zann Nelson, Orange County African American Historical Society (OCAAHS) Board Member and Project Manager. OCAAHS President Rev. Darryle Crump followed and explained the importance of the project. After Rev. Crump, Town of Orange Mayor Martha Roby expressed the support of the Town and gratitude for those involved. County Administrator Theodore Voorhees and Economic Development staff Rose Deal and Julie Perry attended to demonstrate the County ’ s support for the project and its impacts. After Mayor Roby, Mrs. Jane Ware stepped forward and captivated the assembled crowd with memories and stories of growing up near the site, concluding with a touching poem written by Mrs. Lulabelle Robinson. Following Mrs. Ware ’ s remarks, the ground was officially broken and onlookers were invited to the Orange Train Depot for a reception featuring additional remarks, refreshments, and displays of park concepts. Park plans include historical interpretive signs to inform visitors about the importance of the site, as well as traditional landscaping and benches. The signs will connect the physical location to digital information through the use of QR codes. The cost of the project is estimated at $50,000 and construction is planned for completion in June of this year. To view a video of the ceremony and learn more, visit www.ocaahs.org.

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