Reclamation Park Project Launches to Commemorate Saluda’s African American History

The Saluda Community Land Trust is thrilled to announce The Reclamation Park Project, an endeavor to establish a memorial park that commemorates Saluda’s African American Heritage.

In conjunction with the project, the organization will be hosting a public programming series aimed at illuminating Saluda’s African American History. In partnership with local historians, descendants, and community organizations, this series promises to engage and educate audiences of all ages.

The Saluda Community Land Trust and the Reclamation Park Project invites the general public and history enthusiasts alike to join in for these informative presentations as we explore various aspects of Saluda’s African American history, highlighting often overlooked narratives and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared past.

On July 26, the event will be “Saluda’s African American History,” where the organization will present research about the people and the neighborhood that once inhabited Reclamation Park, as well as the larger regional African American community.

August 16 brings “The Kingdom of the Happyland and Reclamation Park.” For this presentation the organization will be joined by Henderson County librarian and regional expert on local Black history, Ronnie Pepper, for an exploration of the connections between Saluda’s African American history and the famed post-emancipation community.

They will conclude the series on September 6 with “The Sullivan Family Legacy,” a presentation about the Sullivan family and the life of their matriarch, healer, and prophet, Madame Phoebia Cheek Sullivan, by John Wilkins, a descendant and executive board member of the Madame Phoebia Cheek Sullivan Memorial Park.

All events will take place at the courtyard next to Saluda Moon Glass Studio on Saluda’s Main Street beginning at 4:00pm. Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend.

Written by Saluda Community Land Trust.