Friends of Chavis Park: Preserving a Rich Heritage for Future Generations

In 2016, John Chavis Memorial Park was the first Raleigh city park to be named to the National Register of Historic Place. Help us honor history while moving forward together.

Named for John Chavis (1762-1838), an early 19th-century free Black preacher and teacher, this 37-acre public park was opened as a recreational spot for the city’s African American residents during segregation. It was dedicated in 1938, and people from all over the Eastern Seaboard - from Washington, DC to Atlanta, Georgia - came to Chavis Park to enjoy its many amenities.

But over the last half of the 20th century, the park was not maintained to the standards it should have been. In the 21st century, local activists, parks department officials, and city leaders have worked hard to restore John Chavis Memorial Park to its previous glory.

The park closed briefly and reopened in 2021 after the first phase of a multimillion-dollar renovation was completed. Featuring an updated community center, popular playground and splash pad, running track and fabulous gym, Chavis Park still features historical amenities like its famous early 20th century carousel.

As wonderful as these renovations have been, there is more work to be done, and the community is joining together to raise funds for other projects approved as part of the overall plan for Chavis Park, but not yet funded. Projects include plans for re-erecting a veteran’s memorial site to commemorate the World War II influence in the park, with a P-51 Mustang replica flown by the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II, and to honor all veterans who have served our country. Important restorations like these will be an important step for preserving the historic heritage of the site while adding new amenities like a family-friendly skate park which will help support the interests of new visitors.

You can help us bring these improvements to life by joining other Friends of Chavis Park and making a donation today! Over 85% of all funds raised will directly support the costs of these improvements, with the remainder used for administrative and fundraising costs. Join the Friends of Chavis Park and be a part of something great! We need your help!

Thank you!!