The Town of Wake Forest is embracing its heritage with plans to develop a new park, anchored by a historic house that stands as a testament to the African American legacy in the area. The proposed Northeast Gateway Park, with its centerpiece, the Ailey Young House, is slated to embody the community's history and provide a new recreational space for residents.
On the evening of June 26, town officials are extending an open invitation to locals for a discussion about the future of this heritage site. The meeting will be held at the Alston-Massenburg Center and, concerned citizens can drop by anytime between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Here, they'll have the opportunity to review draft concept plans, and discuss the naming of the upcoming park. According to the Town of Wake Forest's website, "Community input will be the cornerstone of the effort to produce a concept plan that respects the unique history of the site, celebrates the rich history of the Northeast Community, and provides park space for the community."
The Ailey Young House is not only the oldest known African American historic resource in Wake Forest but also, a Local Historic Landmark. This house and its surrounding land of over three acres are owned by the Town. It's a symbol of times past, having been constructed in the saddlebag form typical of the era around 1870.
The Town's initiative follows recommendations from the Northeast Community Plan Update of 2021 and the Historic Preservation Plan Update a year later, which both advocated for the development of this site as a gateway to the Northeast Community and a celebration of local African American culture. The park planning session will be set against a backdrop of free food provided by Forks Cafeteria & Catering, signaling the town's commitment to fostering a hospitable and inclusive environment for dialogue.
For those interested in contributing to the park's development or simply learning more about the plans underway, detailed information can be found on the Town of Wake Forest's official website.
