We’ve covered the Champaign County African American Heritage Trail at length in a few forms, and as time goes on, there’s still more to discuss when it comes to the creation and celebration of the project. There’s a lot that’s happened since the trail began to take shape in 2021, with the most recent development being the transformation of Champaign Park District’s Skelton Park.
There was a ribbon cutting and celebration a couple of weeks ago to commemorate the progress that’s been made. The project was announced last year, and you can check it out as part of our Year of the Park series.
As CPD points out in their recent announcement, here’s what’s been done, and what’s to come:
Skelton Park is a 1.4-acre pocket park that stands at one of the entrances to the historically African American North End neighborhood. The park has been renovated to pay homage to Champaign County’s legacy of outstanding African American musicians with several new features and amenities. These include a new sculpture by African American artist Preston Jackson, a small plaza and performance area, a seating wall and sloped berm, pathways, lighting, interactive musical instruments, and inscribed pavers.
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Additional improvements to Skelton Park are planned for later in 2024, including general landscaping and beautification, as well as installation of a “Wall of Fame” to recognize specific notable African American musicians with connections to Champaign County.
Skelton Park
82 E Washington St
Champaign
