HERTFORD — The Town of Winfall and Perquimans County came together on Saturday to unveil a poignant addition to the NC Civil Rights Trail on Saturday at Perquimans Middle School in Hertford—a tribute to the legacy of Perquimans Union School students and their landmark march for desegregation.
Ceremony Highlights
- Mayor Preston White of Winfall opened the event with warm remarks and a nod to the community’s enduring spirit.
- Town of Hertford Councilwoman Connie Brothers led both opening and closing prayers, urging reflection on the historic journey toward justice.
- Remarks:
- Stacy Layden, representing the Perquimans County Tourism Development Authority, emphasized the educational and cultural importance of the marker.
- Dr. Tanya Turner, Perquimans County School Superintendent, spoke about the vital role of education in fostering equality.
- Student Voices: Several student descendants of the original marchers shared 2–3 minute reflections, linking past and present.
- Unveiling Moment: A plaque, marking this site on the NC Civil Rights Trail, was revealed amid applause and visible emotion.
Why This Marker Matters
As noted in the Town of Winfall’s invitation, the plaque commemorates the “rich history and enduring legacy of Perquimans Union School students who marched to promote desegregation at the former institution where all Black students in our community once gathered” (Town of Winfall, May 29 invite). The ceremony honored former participants, their families, and the larger community in a moment of remembrance and pride.
The initiative is part of a statewide effort by the NC African American Heritage Commission and the William C. Pomeroy Foundation to establish around 50 Civil Rights Trail markers, many corresponding to student activism and local resilience.
Voices from the Day
Mayor White spoke of unity through history, emphasizing how the trail marker strengthens community identity. Dr. Turner remarked on the power of acknowledging local history in shaping future generations. The students shared heartfelt memories and the importance of continuing the legacy of peaceful action for equality.
NC Civil Rights Trail Initiative
Since its launch in 2021, the NC Civil Rights Trail has installed markers at seminal sites—including New Ahoskie Baptist Church, Adkin High School in Kinston, and Shelby sit-in locations––to preserve moments of courageous student-led change and community-powered advocacy.
Looking Ahead
- Educational Impact: Dr. Turner announced plans for curriculum integration, encouraging students to learn about and visit the marker.
- Community Engagement: Residents were encouraged to nominate further local Civil Rights sites, ensuring under-recognized events gain recognition.
- Legacy Building: The marker strengthens Perquimans County’s narrative on civil rights, uniting past and future generations in the ongoing pursuit of justice.
This unveiling not only marks a place on a trail—it marks a milestone in collective memory. By celebrating the courage of Perquimans Union School students, Hertford ensures that their footsteps continue to guide the way forward.