About Highway Park
A neighborhood built on faith, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of community
Our Beginning
From Highway to Home
In the spring of 1947, a group of twelve African American families pooled their resources and dreams to purchase a stretch of land along the old county highway. They came from different places—some from the rural South seeking new opportunities, others from nearby cities looking for a place to call their own.
What they found was more than just land. They found each other. Together, they cleared the brush, laid the foundations, and built not just houses, but a community. They named it Highway Park—a testament to the road that brought them together and the green spaces they carved out for their children to play.
Those early years were marked by both struggle and triumph. Denied access to many services and businesses in the surrounding areas, Highway Park residents created their own. A general store, a barbershop, a beauty salon, and eventually a medical clinic—all owned and operated by community members.
The heart of the community was always its people. Elders who shared wisdom on front porches. Mothers who watched over every child as their own. Fathers who worked multiple jobs to provide for their families. Young people who carried the torch of progress forward.
Today, Highway Park stands as a living testament to the vision of those founding families. Three and four generations later, their descendants still walk these streets, attend the same churches, and gather for the same annual celebrations. The names on the mailboxes may have changed, but the spirit of community remains unchanged.
Building community since 1947
Descendants still call Highway Park home
Passing down traditions and values
Our Pioneers
The Founding Families
Honoring the visionaries who laid the foundation for our community
Rev. James & Mary Thompson
Led the first group of families to settle in Highway Park and established the community's first place of worship.
Dr. William Carter
The neighborhood's first doctor who provided medical care to families regardless of their ability to pay.
Henrietta Mae Johnson
Founded the first community school and fought tirelessly for educational equality for all children.
Our Journey
Key Moments in Our History
Milestones that shaped Highway Park into the community it is today
The Beginning
Highway Park was established as one of the first African American neighborhoods in the region, founded by families seeking opportunity and community.
First Church Built
Mount Zion Baptist Church became the spiritual cornerstone of the community, serving as a gathering place for worship and civic engagement.
Civil Rights Era
Highway Park residents played pivotal roles in local civil rights movements, organizing peaceful demonstrations and voter registration drives.
Community Center Opens
The Highway Park Community Center was established, providing educational programs, youth activities, and senior services.
Historic Landmark Status
The neighborhood received official historic landmark designation, preserving its cultural significance for future generations.
Heritage Preservation Initiative
A comprehensive effort began to document oral histories, digitize photographs, and preserve the neighborhood's rich legacy.
What We Stand For
Our Community Values
The principles that have guided Highway Park for over seven decades
Family & Unity
We believe in the strength of family bonds and the power of community unity to overcome any challenge.
Education & Growth
Knowledge is the foundation of progress. We invest in our youth and lifelong learning for all.
Service & Compassion
Neighbors helping neighbors has always been our way. We lift each other up in times of need.
Heritage & Pride
We honor those who came before us by preserving our history and passing it to future generations.
Visual History
Memories Through the Years
Become Part of Our Story
Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, there's a place for you in the Highway Park community.