Garfield/Green Street National Historic District Celebrated with Community Sign Unveiling
On Friday, June 19, 2026, residents, neighborhood leaders, elected officials, City staff, community partners, and visitors gathered in the Garfield/Green Street neighborhood to celebrate a milestone that was years in the making - the official recognition and celebration of the Garfield/Green Street National Historic District.
The celebration, held in conjunction with Juneteenth, honored the history of the Garfield/Green Street community and the generations of residents, churches, businesses, and community leaders whose contributions have helped shape the neighborhood and the City of Statesville.
Earlier this year, the Statesville City Council formally recognized the designation of the Garfield/Green Street National Historic District. The June 19 event provided an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate that achievement with the unveiling of new historic district signage.
Councilwoman Lisa Pearson welcomed attendees and guided the program, introducing Mayor Doug Hendrix, community leaders, and neighborhood representatives who shared remarks throughout the ceremony.
During the program, Pearson was presented with a plaque in recognition of her leadership and dedication to the Garfield/Green Street National Historic District project.
Throughout the program, speakers reflected on the neighborhood's history while recognizing many of the individuals, churches, businesses, and organizations that have long been part of the Garfield/Green Street community.
Special recognition was given to:
- Mrs. Juanita Walker as one of the neighborhood's oldest residents.
- Historic churches including Mt. Pleasant AME Zion Church, First Baptist Church, Calvary Presbyterian Church, and Scotts Chapel United Methodist Church.
- Longstanding businesses including Rutledge & Bigham Mortuary, Rankin's Barbershop, Little John's Barber Shop, and Lewis Taxi.
- The Morningside Alumni Association and the Statesville African American Historic Preservation Commission for their continued efforts to preserve and share the community's history.
Following the program, attendees gathered for the unveiling of the new Garfield/Green Street National Historic District sign, marking the neighborhood's official designation with a permanent sign that will welcome residents and visitors while recognizing the community's place in Statesville's history.
The celebration also included local vendors, food trucks, and opportunities for residents and visitors to gather, connect, and celebrate the neighborhood's history together.
The event highlighted many of the neighborhood's historic landmarks, including Morningside School, Garfield Recreation Center, the Green Street Cemetery, historic churches, longtime businesses, and homes that tell the story of the Garfield/Green Street community.
Mayor Doug Hendrix thanked the residents and preservation advocates whose dedication helped bring the historic district designation to fruition, noting that preserving local history ensures future generations understand and appreciate the stories that shaped Statesville.
The City of Statesville extends its appreciation to the Statesville African American Historic Preservation Commission, neighborhood leaders, volunteers, and everyone who helped organize the celebration and preserve the history of the Garfield/Green Street National Historic District.
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