Friends of Chavis Park
John Chavis Memorial park is a city park in the Raleigh Park System. Its official website can be found here.
In 2016, John Chavis Memorial Park earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places as Raleigh's first city park to receive this honor. We invite you to join us in celebrating and advancing this historic legacy as we move forward together.
Named in honor of John Chavis (1762-1838), a pioneering free Black preacher and teacher of the early 19th century, this 37-acre public park was established to provide recreational space for the city’s African American community during segregation. Since its dedication in 1938, Chavis Park has been a cherished destination for visitors from across the Eastern Seaboard, from Washington, DC, to Atlanta, Georgia.
However, like many historical sites, Chavis Park faced challenges in maintaining its facilities throughout the latter half of the 20th century. In response, local activists, park officials, and city leaders have dedicated their efforts to restoring John Chavis Memorial Park to its former splendor.
The park briefly closed but reopened in 2021 following the completion of the first phase of a multimillion-dollar renovation. The updated park now features a new community center, a popular playground and splash pad, a running track, a gym, and historical amenities like its iconic early 20th-century carousel.
While these renovations are significant, further work is needed. The community is rallying to raise funds for additional projects approved in the overall plan for Chavis Park but not yet funded. Upcoming initiatives include re-establishing a veteran’s memorial to honor the park’s World War II heritage, featuring a P-51 Mustang replica flown by the Tuskegee Airmen, as well as new amenities like a family-friendly skate park designed to attract and engage new visitors.
You can play a crucial role in bringing these improvements to life by joining the Friends of Chavis Park and making a donation today! Over 85% of the funds raised will directly support the costs of these enhancements, with the remainder covering administrative and fundraising expenses. Join us in preserving the historic legacy of Chavis Park while enriching the community’s experience. Your support is essential, and together, we can make a significant impact.
