The Fayetteville City Council convened on November 21, 2024, to discuss the ongoing efforts of the Black Heritage Preservation Commission. The meeting focused on the historical significance of the Black community in Southeast Fayetteville, particularly an area known as "The Hollow" or "The Holler," which is situated below Spring Street and above Huntsville Road.

The discussion began with an overview of the terminology used to describe the historic Black community, emphasizing the geographical features that define The Hollow. The area is characterized by steep inclines, notably Mount Sequoia, which contributes to its unique identity. The commission highlighted the importance of using accurate language in their research and documentation, reflecting the community's historical context.

A key part of the meeting involved presenting a map of the study area, which was provided by the city. This map served as a foundational tool for understanding the geographical layout of the community being studied. The commission noted that the map included parts of the Washington and Willow Historic District and various commercial and civic resources along College Avenue.

The presentation also included findings from public meetings and oral histories that identified specific neighborhoods where Black families resided during the twentieth century. The commission acknowledged that prior to 1900, there was limited documentation of specific addresses or streets occupied by the Black community. However, they were able to provide insights into the demographic changes that occurred over the years, particularly around the Henderson School area on North Olive Avenue.

The Henderson School, a significant landmark, was noted as a central point for Black families in the early history of Fayetteville. The commission shared that many families, including the descendants of notable community members, settled near the school. However, by 1930, most Black families had relocated, leaving only a few, such as the Marsh Bank Taylor family, in the area.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the preservation of historical resources that tell the story of Southeast Fayetteville's Black community. The commission emphasized the need for continued research and documentation to ensure that the contributions and history of this community are recognized and preserved for future generations. The next steps involve further exploration of the area and gathering more data to support their preservation efforts.