Honoring Mooresville’s Black History: A Legacy of Strength and Resilience

Mooresville, North Carolina, is widely recognized for its automotive history and scenic landscapes, but there is also a deep, rich African American history that has helped shape the town and its culture. This Black History Month, we honor the remarkable contributions of Mooresville’s Black community, celebrating their resilience, achievements, and impact on the fabric of this town.

The African American presence in Mooresville dates back to the 19th century, when the area was largely agricultural. During the era of slavery, African Americans played a key role in building the region, with many being enslaved on large plantations such as the Mount Mourne Plantation. Despite the hardships, their hard work laid the foundation for future generations of Black residents in the area.

After the Civil War, the African American community began to establish its own institutions. Churches played a central role in shaping the community, providing not only a place of worship but also a space for social gatherings and cultural development. The Freedom United Presbyterian Church and Logan Presbyterian Church were among the first Black churches in the area, and they became vital pillars of the Black community.

The original Shinnsville United Church of Christ that was built in the late 1890’s.

Education also became a focal point for African Americans in Mooresville, despite the challenges of segregation. In the early 20th century, the community worked tirelessly to establish schools that provided quality education to Black children. These schools were crucial in fostering a sense of pride and empowerment, helping to build the foundation for future leaders and change-makers in Mooresville.

Dunbar Graduation Class of 1948. Photo courtesy Mooresville Public Library Local History and Archives.
Dunbar Graduation Class. The image is taken at the breezeway between the main building and addition. Photo courtesy Mooresville Public Library Local History and Archives.

One of the most notable cultural figures to emerge from Mooresville was Selma Burke, a talented sculptor who became an iconic figure during the Harlem Renaissance. Burke, who was born in Mooresville, went on to create the famous bust of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, which became the basis for the U.S. dime. Her artistic legacy has had a lasting impact, and her work continues to inspire generations of artists.

Selma Burke in her studio, Peter A. Juley & Son Collection, Smithsonian American Art Museum.

In recent years, there has been a renewed effort to document and share the stories of Mooresville’s Black residents. The documentary Black Mooresville: The Untold Story captures the voices and memories of the town’s African American community, sharing photographs, oral histories, and narratives of the people who shaped the town. The documentary highlights the struggles and triumphs of Mooresville’s Black community, and it is a powerful tool for preserving the history that has often been overlooked.

Dunbar school teachers. Photo courtesy Mooresville Public Library Local History and Archives.

Today, Mooresville’s Black community continues to be an integral part of the town’s identity. Through ongoing efforts to recognize and celebrate their contributions, the town honors the legacy of resilience, creativity, and community spirit that African Americans have instilled in Mooresville for generations. By reflecting on the rich history of the Black community, we ensure that their stories are passed down to future generations, inspiring them to continue building a town that values diversity and inclusivity.

The Mooresville Public Library Local History and Archives collects interviews with local residents to preserve family histories, memories, and the history of Mooresville, North Carolina.

The Black History Project focuses on documenting the experiences and events of the Black community in Mooresville, offering firsthand accounts not found in traditional sources. This collection includes oral history interviews, photographs, and memorabilia.

Launched in August 2022, the project was led by Reverend Curtis Johnson, President of the local NAACP, after a community meeting sparked interest. Interviews were conducted by Reverend Johnson, Reverend Gavin Gabriel, Sharnetta Clark-Gordon, and Shawn Eckles, with filming by Shawn Eckles and Anthony Smith. The Mooresville Public Library partnered with Eckles to produce a 60-minute documentary, featuring interviews, photos, and research. The documentary premiered on February 11, 2023, in honor of Black History Month and Mooresville’s 150th anniversary.

View the collection here: https://digital.mooresvillenc.gov/digital/collection/blackhistory

Black Mooresville: The Untold Story – Part 1, 2 and 3

Courtesy of Mooresville Public Library NC

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