John Chavis Memorial Park stands as a cornerstone of Raleigh’s history and community life. Located at 505 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., this 28.87-acre park has served as a vibrant recreational and cultural hub since its opening in 1937. Named after John Chavis, a free Black educator, preacher, and Revolutionary War veteran, the park carries a legacy of resilience and community pride. We explores the park’s rich history, modern amenities, and ongoing improvements, offering a complete guide for visitors and locals alike.
The History of John Chavis Memorial Park
Early Beginnings and Dedication
John Chavis Memorial Park opened on July 4, 1937, as a recreational space for Raleigh’s African American community during the era of segregation. Funded by the WPA, the park was a rare facility for Black residents in North Carolina, reflecting “separate but equal” policies. The park’s design, led by National Park Service landscape architect G. Robert Derick, used rustic materials like stone and log to blend with the natural surroundings, a style known as “parkitechture.”
On March 18, 1938, the Negro Citizen’s Committee of Raleigh (now the Raleigh-Wake Citizen’s Association) successfully petitioned to name the park after John Chavis (1763–1838). Chavis, a trailblazer, opened a school in 1808 near the park’s current site, educating both Black and white students despite the challenges of his time. His contributions as a minister and veteran made him a fitting namesake for this community landmark.
Key Milestones Through the Decades
The park’s early years saw it become a regional destination, drawing African American families from across Eastern North Carolina. Its initial features included a swimming pool, athletic fields, tennis courts, picnic shelters, an amphitheater, and the iconic Allan Herschell Carousel, installed on July 2, 1937. This No. 2 Special Three-Abreast carousel, still operational today, remains a highlight with its hand-carved horses and Wurlitzer band organ.
During World War II, the park housed a temporary tented camp and Veterans Annex for Black soldiers visiting Raleigh. In the 1960s, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 desegregated public facilities, allowing African Americans to access other parks like Pullen Park. This led to a decline in visitors to Chavis Park, as families no longer needed to travel long distances to enjoy its amenities. Despite this, the park remained a vital community space.
In 1971, Raleigh developed a master plan to revitalize the park, adding new athletic fields and a smaller pool. The 1982 restoration of the carousel and the opening of the nearby John P. “Top” Greene Community Center marked further efforts to preserve its legacy. In 2016, the park earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
Modern Amenities at John Chavis Memorial Park
Community Center and Fitness Facilities
The park’s 2021 renovation introduced a state-of-the-art, 41,600-square-foot community center designed to LEED Silver standards. The two-story facility includes a full-size indoor gym, an elevated walking track, a fitness room with treadmills, bikes, and weights, and multiple meeting rooms for rent. A spacious reception hall with luxury vinyl flooring and a balcony overlooking downtown Raleigh accommodates up to 171 guests, making it ideal for events. The fitness room offers rubberized flooring and scenic views of the central plaza, enhancing the workout experience.
Historic Carousel and Playground
The Allan Herschell Carousel, a centerpiece since 1937, continues to delight visitors. With 36 hand-painted horses and special seating for wheelchair users, it’s both nostalgic and inclusive. Tickets cost $1.50 for riders over one year old, with free rides for children under 12 months accompanied by an adult. The nearby playground, revamped in 2021, features a rope bridge skywalk for older kids and a whimsical playhouse for younger ones, catering to all ages.
Splash Pad and Outdoor Spaces
A 7,000-square-foot splash pad in the central plaza offers a refreshing water play area, replacing the original pool demolished during renovations. The plaza, adorned with artist David Wilson’s “Chavis Reclaimed” glass collage, connects the community center and the renovated carousel house. The park also includes a half-mile section of the Capital Area Greenway Trail, athletic fields, picnic shelters, and a lit outdoor track, perfect for walkers and runners.
Cultural Exhibits
The “Past to Present” outdoor exhibit, located near the carousel house and playgrounds, chronicles the park’s history from John Chavis’ arrival in Raleigh in 1809 to its 2021 upgrades. The exterior timeline details key events, while the interior display highlights community stories with full-color images. This exhibit, supported by the South Park-East Raleigh Neighborhood Association, preserves the park’s cultural heritage.
Ongoing Improvements and Future Plans
Phase 2 Development
Funded by the 2022 Raleigh Parks Bond, Phase 2 of the park’s master plan is underway. A new John Chavis Aquatics Center, with a $53.95 million budget, will offer indoor and outdoor facilities for recreation, competition, and wellness. The project includes reconfigured parking, stormwater upgrades, and Heritage Plaza enhancements, anchoring the South Park Heritage Trail in Raleigh. This two-mile cultural trail will feature art, signage, and streetscape upgrades to celebrate Southeast Raleigh’s history. Community input remains central, with public open houses and focus groups planned through 2024.
Community Engagement
The park’s evolution reflects strong community involvement. From the 2012–2014 master planning process to the 2017 schematic design approval, residents have shaped its development. Raleigh’s Public Participation Playbook guided collaboration, ensuring the park meets community needs while honoring its rich history.
Why Visit John Chavis Memorial Park?
John Chavis Memorial Park offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy the carousel, splash pad, and playground, while fitness enthusiasts can use the gym, track, or greenway trail. History buffs will appreciate the “Past to Present” exhibit and the park’s National Register status. Its proximity to downtown Raleigh, just 0.4 miles from attractions like Transfer Co. Food Hall, makes it an accessible destination. Plan a picnic, workout, or community event at this park, blending history, recreation, and modern amenities for all.
Conclusion
John Chavis Memorial Park is more than a recreational space; it’s a living testament to Raleigh’s African American heritage and community spirit. From its historic carousel to its modern community center, the park blends the past with the present, offering a welcoming environment for all. With ongoing improvements like the new aquatics center and South Park Heritage Trail, the park continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Plan your visit to explore this historic oasis and experience its unique charm firsthand.
