A displaced community existed between present day Pickens, Gervais, Heyward and Huger Streets was once known as the Ward One Community. The historic Neighborhood once included proud, humble and loving people; numerous homes & rentals, churches, schools, banks, and black-owned businesses, which has since been demolished under the guise of so labeled “urban renewal and USC’s expansion”. Although th
e community is now occupied by State buildings, USC dormitories, sport complexes, etc., the old neighborhood still exists in the hearts and minds of its former residents. Gentrification may have changed the community of old, but the spirit of the Ward still exists and this was illuminated in 1991, through the shared experiences of A.J. and Beatrice Richardson (1st President); Veola Chatman, Odell and Viola Jackson, Homer and Billie Kennedy, William “Zeke” and Ethel Mary Workman Rawlinson, James H. “Jimbo” Davis, who had the vision of forming the now, Ward One Organization. This group stated that it was a common place at various gatherings, meetings and funerals that someone would reminisce about the old Ward; never quite remembering the full details of the person or place. However, it did not take much more than a passion of “not forgetting” to move forward with the idea of a reunion. Subsequently, the Organization began monthly meetings two decades plus, at the Union Baptist Church, which was one of the demolished community churches, located on the then ten-hundred block of Devine Street. With a primary purpose of renewing acquaintances; the Organization draws attention to the shared history and legacies of a predominantly African American community, whose mantra is: “We’re Still Not Done With the Old Ward One!”
While much has been achieved, there is still opportunity for the membership to forge ahead for the purpose of:
· Fostering continued awareness of the many legacies and significance of the former community
· Researching and actively pursuing the approval for request of landmark status, markers and or monuments that will serve to memorialize the legacies of descendants and their contributions
· Continuing the Biennial Reunion, which began in 1992
· Ultimately establishing a museum under its acquired 501 (C3) status, with memorabilia and artifacts that will permanently house and crystalize the humble, yet rich heritage of a beloved community, gone but not forgotten
