Title
Resolution Renaming the Fulton Street Playground
Purpose
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND:
In 2012, the Fulton Street Playground, located at 58 Fulton Street in Phoebus, was renamed to "The Louise Barbour Davis Playground." A dedication took place that was attended by City officials and many citizens. In reviewing City records, staff has discovered that City Council did not officially approve the playground renaming via a formal resolution. As such, this approval is presented now.
Discussion:
The purpose of the playground renaming was to honor the efforts of Louise Barbour Davis. Mrs. Davis was a native Hamptonian and lifelong resident of Phoebus. When Mrs. Davis was a young physical education teacher at Hampton Institute, she had a dream to establish a playground for African American children in Phoebus. She worked tirelessly to acquire land and get a playground built at 58 Fulton Street. This became known as the Fulton Street Playground.
During the 100th anniversary of Zion Baptist Church, Reverend J. Dett Marshburn led the community effort to rename the Fulton Street Playground to the Louise Barbour Davis Playground. The group wished to properly recognize Mrs. Davis for her efforts to establish and maintain the playground.
Impact:
There is no cost associated with this action.
Recommendation:
Rec
Approve the resolution.
Body
WHEREAS, when Louise Barbour Davis, a native Hamptonian and lifelong resident of Phoebus, was a young physical education teacher at Hampton Institute, she had a dream to establish a playground for African American children in Phoebus;
WHEREAS, Mrs. Davis worked tirelessly to acquire land and get a playground built at 58 Fulton Street;
WHEREAS, this playground became known as the Fulton Street Playground;
WHEREAS, during the 100th anniversary of Zion Baptist Church, Reverend J. Dett Marshburn led the community effort to rename the Fulton Street Playground to the Louise Barbour Davis Playground;
WHEREAS, the group wished to properly recognize Mrs. Davis for her efforts to establish and maintain the playground; and
WHEREAS, because of her dedication and commitment to the children of the city of Hampton, the City Council of the City of Hampton believes it is fit and proper to honor Louise Barbour Davis in as significant a way as she served the community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Hampton, Virginia, that the playground, located at 58 Fulton Street in Hampton, and presently known as the "Fulton Street Playground," from this day forward be named and known as the Louise Barbour Davis Playground, to be recognized with appropriate signage at the playground site.