Raleigh's African-American heritage is taking center stage thanks to a series of guided walking tours at Mt. Hope Cemetery, one of the first municipal cemeteries in North Carolina designated for African Americans. Organized by the City of Raleigh’s Historical Resources and Museum Advisory Board, the tours promise to shed light on significant contributions made by the black community within Raleigh's tapestry of history.
Steering these informational journeys is Carmen Cauthen, noted for her insights as a family historian and racial equity advocate, as well as for her authorship of Historic Black Neighborhoods of Raleigh. According to the City of Raleigh's announcement, participants embarking on the tour can expect to explore "powerful stories of Raleigh’s African-American community" and to pay tribute to illustrious figures now at rest in these hallowed grounds.
For those keen on delving into the rich past of African-American impact in Raleigh, the hour-long tours are set for Saturdays, Sept. 20 and Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. till 11 a.m. at the Mt. Hope Cemetery. Joining Cauthen's walk through history is not only an educational sojourn but also a moment to respect the legacy of individuals and families who have helped mold the city's evolution. Though the event is without charge, it's suggested that high school and older audiences will be best suited to handle the depth of the subject matter covered.
