The City of Clayton and the Clayton Community Foundation (CCF) are honored to announce the unveiling of the "A Community Remembered" marker. This event will take place on Wednesday, April 3, at 10 am, at 7700 Carondelet Ave in downtown Clayton.
This marker commemorates Clayton's vibrant Black community from the 1880s to the 1960s, whose invaluable contributions enriched our city's cultural and economic fabric despite facing discrimination and limited opportunities. From homeowners to educators, laborers, and city workers, these early residents played pivotal roles in shaping Clayton's history, establishing churches, businesses, and fostering community spirit. Yet, their legacy was overshadowed by challenges like housing discrimination and rezoning, leading to displacement and the erasure of their history.
In recognition of their enduring impact, the City of Clayton and CCF are proud to honor this community with the unveiling of the "A Community Remembered" marker. This momentous occasion reflects the dedication of the Mayor's Commemorative Landscape Task Force, which has been instrumental in advocating for monuments that highlight overlooked aspects of Clayton's history.
"The 'A Community Remembered' marker stands as a symbol of our joint commitment to preserving all parts of Clayton’s history," said Mayor Michelle Harris. "It honors the resilience and contributions of our early Black community, shaping the City we know today. Through the hard work and efforts of the Mayor's Commemorative Landscape Task Force, we are ensuring that the stories of our diverse community are preserved and celebrated, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage for generations to come."
The ceremony will feature remarks from community leaders followed by the official unveiling of the marker. Members of the press, community members, and all interested parties are warmly invited to attend.