The Fayetteville City Council meeting on November 21, 2024, focused on the preservation of Black heritage in the city, highlighting significant historical findings related to the African American community in Fayetteville.

During the meeting, a presentation detailed the demographic changes in Fayetteville from the 1870 to the 1880 census. It was noted that in the 1870 census, Black and white families lived intermingled throughout the city, indicating a lack of a concentrated Black community at that time. However, by 1880, evidence emerged of a developing Black community, with 15 African American families residing in close proximity to one another, likely in the Hollow area, possibly on Willow Avenue.

The presentation included aerial images from 1886, showcasing the early layout of Southeast Fayetteville's historic Black community. Key streets such as East Center, East Mountain, and East Meadow were identified, with descriptions of the small wood-frame houses built on stone pier foundations to mitigate flooding risks in the hilly terrain.

This discussion underscores the importance of recognizing and preserving the history of Fayetteville's Black community, as it reflects the broader narrative of African American life in the region. The findings may serve as a foundation for future preservation efforts and community engagement initiatives aimed at honoring this significant aspect of Fayetteville's heritage.