Cherry Neighborhood History

Cherry Neighborhood History. . The Cherry Neighborhood was first platted in 1891 by John Springs Myers and Mary Morgan Rawlinson Myers from their 1,000 acre cotton farm. It was the first neighborhood in Charlotte built especially to provide home ownership opportunities for laborers and working class African- Americans. The name of the neighborhood is said to have been inspired by the cherry trees that grew on the hillsides of the hollow. , Morgan School and Morgan Park were built in the mid 1920's and were named for Mrs. Mary Myers. Morgan Park is renowned to be the first city park in an African-American neighborhood in Charlotte. , Mr. and Mrs. Myers wanted a better life for African-Americans and achieved this through their vision for the Cherry Neighborhood. That vision continues today, as the Cherry Neighborhood is “blooming with spirit and rich history, bringing diverse people together to preserve and celebrate our roots.” , On July 18, 2006 the Board of County Commissioners voted to rename the park Cherry Neighborhood Park, in response to the Neighborhood's wishes to more accurately reflect its location. , This plaque is placed to honor John Springs Myers and Mary Morgan Rawlinson Myers for their vision and commitment to the residents of the Cherry Neighborhood. , Park and Recreation Commission. Robert Patterson, Chair . Scott McClure, Vice Chair . John Barry . Bill Brawley . James Brown . William Chandler . Owen Furusetht . Larry Huelsman . Laura McClettie . Brad Pearce . Teresa Sharp . Mary Wilson , Board of County Commissioners. Jennifer Roberts, Chair . Parks Helms, Vice Chair . Dan Ramirez . Karen Bentley . Norman Mitchell . Valerie Woodard . Dumont Clarke . Dan Bishop . Bill James