MATTHEWS CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH

In recognition of Black History month, the Town held an educational event for people to learn more about black history in Matthews, including Crestdale, one of the oldest African American communities in North Carolina.

Earlier this week, Barbara Taylor, formerly with the Matthews Heritage Museum, gave a presentation at the Matthews Library about Leon Berry, a local African American basketweaver. Following her presentation, Joe Brandenburg, a docent with the Matthews Heritage Museum, gave a talk on the history of the Crestdale community. He shared some photographs and discussed some of the families who were a part of the community.

After the talk, residents joined Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource staff for a walk on the Matthews Heritage Trail recognizing both Black History Month and the Year of the Trail. Two thirds of those in the group had never been on the Heritage Trail prior to that event. Along with reading the informational signs along the trail, general history of Matthews and the Heritage Trail itself were discussed.

Remembering Willie Young

The first African American police officer for the Matthews Police Department

Willie Young passed away last month at the age of 88. Mr. Young joined the Matthews Police Department in the 1970s making him the first person of color in the history of the department. After leaving the department, Mr. Young along with his wife Sarah started a greenhouse and florist business.

Mr. Young was a member of Mount Moriah Baptist Church. He was an activist for the concerns and issues affecting the Crestdale Community. Mr. Young had 18 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Mr. Young’s son, Calvin, followed in his father’s footsteps by also joining the Matthews Police Department. Officer Calvin Young retired in 2022 after 30 years of service.