William Valentine
Salisbury History & Art Trail
— Civil War & Reconstruction —
William Valentine, a free man of color, was born in North Carolina and lived in Salisbury for a number of years. His home on East Bank Street, purchased before the Civil War, was located just outside the gates of the Confederate States Military Prison. After the war, it was known as the old garrison house and is the only remaining structure associated with the prison.
Prominent in the affairs of the black community, Valentine was one of the trustees for Dixonville Cemetery and the African M.E. Zion Church, now known as the Soldiers Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church. In 1874 the Carolina Watchman noted that he was recognized as one of the best barbers in the state, and stated: "Billy Valentine shaved last year 1,120 persons besides cutting hair." Patrons entered his barbershop located in this building from Innes Street.
Erected 2006.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Churches & Religion • Industry & Commerce • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the African Methodist Episcopal Zion (AME Zion) Church series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1874.
Location. 35° 40.032′ N, 80° 28.193′ W. Marker is in Salisbury, North
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. John Willis Ellis (a few steps from this marker); Hinton Rowan Helper (within shouting distance of this marker); Boone Trail 1769 (within shouting distance of this marker); Salisbury Fire Dept. (within shouting distance of this marker); Salisbury Rotary Club (within shouting distance of this marker); Andrew Jackson (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); Crossroads: Past Into Present (about 500 feet away); Wiley Immanuel Lash (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Salisbury.
Credits. This page was last revised on June 23, 2021. It was originally submitted on June 23, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 194 times since then and 19 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on June 23, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
