In a heartfelt initiative to honor the legacy of enslaved individuals, the Friends of the Concord Covered Bridge Historic District have announced the installation of a Toni Morrison bench in recognition of Matilda Ruff, a once-enslaved woman, and her family. This bench will be placed in a newly designated green space, named Matilda's Garden, located near the entrance to the Silver Comet Trail on Concord Road.

The project was inspired by the musings of Nobel laureate Toni Morrison, who emphasized the importance of remembering those whose lives were intertwined with significant locations. The bench serves as a tribute not only to Matilda but also to her family, whose names were discovered by a local resident in an old kitchen cupboard. The names—Matilda, Calvin, Zaida, and Rota—were linked to historical records, revealing their existence in the 1860 slave schedule and later in the 1870 census after emancipation.

The Friends of the Historic District believe that a bench, unlike a mere sign or plaque, creates an interactive space for reflection and connection with the past. This initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding of the area's history and the lives of those who once lived there, ensuring that their stories are not forgotten. The installation of the bench marks a significant step in recognizing the contributions and experiences of enslaved individuals in the community.