Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of blacks in U.S. history. Old Town Cornelius (OTC) has partnered with Smithville COmmUNITY Coalition (SCC) to host and promote various events, programs and exhibits to enjoy all month long! Take advantage with the cultural opportunities to share and memorialize our local heritage and the threads that weave our beloved community.
Smithville’s Roots
Founded in 1910, Smithville is one of the oldest communities in Cornelius, with roots dating back to the 1880s. The Smithville CommUNITY Coalition was formed in 2011 and is made up of residents, area citizens, non-profits and faith-based communities. Their vision is to revitalize and transform their community into a vibrant, safe and attractive place to live and work that builds pride in its residents and attracts new developments of affordable homes and businesses, focusing on empowering all individuals and strengthening families.
All Month!
Art Exhibit @ OTPH
21314 Catawba Ave – 980.288. 4418
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–collection of artwork by Monica Stewart, Selma Glass, Christine Jopling
–original work by F. Kernes and live painting demonstration (Feb 10, 11)
History and Heritage Exhibits @ OTPH
All month!
— “Shared Stories: Shared History. Black Lives in Northern Mecklenburg” on loan from Davidson College
–Tribute to Wilson Potts and Potts Barber Shop (the site of the peaceful end to segregation in OTC in 1972)
–Smithville Heritage Scrapbook as compiled by Jack Conard Jr
FRIDAY FEB 9, SATURDAY FEB 10 @ 6:00 PM
SUNDAY FEB 11 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Michael Conner, grandson of John Conner, will be performing his self-directed “The Foreshadowing of a People: Reflections from the Past,” at OTPH in celebration of the opening reception of art and heritage exhibitions. The Saturday performance will be accompanied by other opening reception activities including live music and A Worthy Dog food cart.
Conner takes on the personalities of “Seven Great Negro Orators” to honor the message of these monumental figures. His acting is exceptional and thought provoking.
SATURDAY FEB 10 (8:00PM-11:00PM)
Calvin Edwards Trio to perfrom at Old Town Public House. The Big Bopper is back in the building! The International Jazz recording and performing artist Calvin Edwards makes his highly anticipated return to OTC! A show stopping event!
SUNDAY FEB 11th (6:00 PM — 9:00 PM) OTPH hosts the monthly Jazz Jam, you do not want to miss this event! (A Worthy Dog Food Cart will be posted outside on Catawba Ave)
Support local efforts
The above events were organized by a commmittee of volunteers. Tax-deductible donations to Smithville CommUNITY Coalition, a 501(c)3 charity will be accepted. To learn more about SCC’s mission and vision, email SCC Historical Preservation Chair: Ronald Potts
[email protected]
SATURDAY Feb 24
(1:00 pm-3:00 pm)
Town Hall, 21445 Catawba Ave
Presentations from Torrence Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, Hunters Chapel United Methodist Church and Union Bethal Africal Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. Free Community event, children’s activities, performances, and refreshments.
SUNDAY FEB 25 2:00pm
WPAC, 9216 Westmoreland Road, will host the live performance by Michael Conner and a Q & A session about “The Foreshadowing of a People: Reflections from the Past,” or any other pieces in his body of work. The movie/documentary, “Filling the Gap” will also be shown.
Jess Boye
I live here in Old Town Cornelius and absolutely love our area's unique character. My life's calling is to work to bring art and culture to the forefront of everyday life. I work full-time for Bella Love, Inc and taking care of my adorable son, Kipton.
