The Merrick-Moore Community, originally the Millie Rone Hall Estate on the Roane Plantation, runs along Cheek Road (which was “Fish Dam Road”). Our community was officially developed by V.F Pope and H.L Noell in 1947, with the first Black family to purchase land and build a home in 1940.
Many of the first residents to purchase lots and build were veterans of WWII who were released from the duty of service between 1945 – 1946. There were many families who purchased multiple lots, most being brothers, sisters, parents and others who had come from farms before the war.
Merrick-Moore community is steeped in the tradition of inground gardening. Many of the original residents were born from a life of sharecropping. Gardens were a lot of work but brought a great sense of pride in having neatly planted rows that were weed-free and produced an abundance of food to feed your family and others. My father’s mantra was to plant more than you need so that you have enough to share with those in need.
(written by Bonita Green, MMCDC president)
Thank You to the B.W. Wells Stewardship Fund and NC Native Plant Society
We’re honored to receive support from the B.W. Wells Stewardship Fund and NC Native Plant Society for the Samuel Green Sr. Community Garden. Their generous grant helps us continue our mission to grow a sustainable, vibrant garden that serves and uplifts our community. Thank you for making this work possible!
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