Welcome, Reflect & Gather
The dynamic themes of discovery, recognition and celebration are expressed in the sculpting of the Park’s landscape and educational features. There are areas to reflect and places to gather – and a signature vertical architectural structure at the center of Freedom Park – the Beacon of Freedom – to welcome visitors.
The Beacon of Freedom
The Beacon of Freedom is an abstract metal art structure depicting a giant flame. The flame characterizes the spirit of African Americans and all who have struggled for freedom.
The Beacon of Freedom is made of steel and stands 45 feet high on a wooden plinth. Another ten feet of metal below anchors the beacon to a reinforced base. The Beacon is coated with a bright gold finish that contrasts with the rugged finish of the precast and metal walls. The eight LED lights in the plinth highlight the beacon while reaching to the heavens.
The beacon was assembled in the early stages of park construction to not damage the walkways. The cranes required to lift the beacon and the beacon itself were too heavy to be on the finished walkways without causing damage.
The Walkways
The gray concrete walkways leading to the Beacon are designed like a sunburst as a reflection of hope and a brighter future.
The Walls
The red dirt-like walls with quotes are a prominent feature of the Park. The walls are intentionally red, textured and distressed with sunken letters to match the soil beneath the Park’s surface.
The Quotes and the Authors
Visitors to the Park will be inspired by the Voices of Freedom in the form of quotes from African Americans inscribed on the Park’s walls.
The Brush Arbor
The arbor area of NC Freedom Park is a place for thought, relaxation, prayer and reflection. The arbor also reflects a tradition of the African American experience. Brush arbors, often hidden by branches, served as a quiet secluded place for enslaved people and became a gathering spot for worship and thought. The arbor was a place to cultivate community and faith.
Some arbors were constructed with sticks, poles, and branches to resemble a church.
After the end of slavery, the arbor meetings evolved into revivals and camp meetings in open areas or under large tents. These gatherings were the foundation of the southern African American church. Many churches were built on the places where brush arbor meetings were held.