Our Mission
The Merrick-Moore CDC, in its diverse community, exists for charitable and educational purposes, to improve the overall quality of life for the poor, underprivileged, and disenfranchised by strengthening the bonds among our residents.
Our History
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.
Community Garden
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!
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!
MMCDC PROJECTS
preserving the history of the merrick-moore community
One of MMCDC’s goals is to preserve the history of the Merrick-Moore community and its residents and pass it along to upcoming generations. This will provide the entire Durham community with a better understanding of MMCDC’s mission of protecting the legacy of our ancestors, and their experiences that led to an undeniable impact on Durham, which will never be forgotten.
We’re seeking to connect with current and former Merrick-Moore residents to share their stories and memories from living in the community. This will include (depending on which option is best for the participant) video recordings, audio recordings, and/or sharing photos and documents.
interested in participating?
Contact MMCDC President, Bonita Green at
merrickmoore.cdc.2421@gmail.com
OR
Contact MMCDC Content Manager, Aniya Bourne at
aniya@bournetofilm.com or 919-923-3157
UPCOMING EVENTS
Check out the upcoming MMCDC events and volunteer opportunities. To stay up to date on what we’re doing and how you can get involved, follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter!
OUR PARTNERS
Get in touch!
Contact us for anything you want to know. We are happy to answer any questions you have, as quickly as possible.
