Part of the lined up events to formally celebrate Durham’s 150th anniversary includes recognition of vital achievements by members of the African American community.
Today, the city reflects an environment of big businesses but the foundation of this accomplishment can be traced few miles away to an antique brick building on Fayetteville Street and to the headquarters of one of the oldest bank which is located on West Parrish Street.
According to Webb and historian Eddie Davies, John Merrick was one of the persons who distinguished effort for the betterment of Durham’s future. He founded the North Carolina Mutual life Insurance Company and also supported the creation of Mechanics and Farmers Bank.
The establishment of this business occurred at a time when racism was at its peak. Racist chase many families out of town and even burnt a black-owned business in Wilmington.
The Mechanics and Farmers Bank still operates in Durham, though it is not the only surviving memory of a place known as Black Wall Street.
Richard fitzgerald provided most of the redbrick around downtown, including the building of St. Joseph Catholic which is now used by Hayti Heritage Center.
These are just a few of the many people who contributed to the development of Durham.
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