Roberts Settlement Imagine Black Pioneers fundraising campaign received $10,000 from Duke Energy for its Legacy Walk exhibit, a self-guided outdoor experience that will tell the story of Indiana’s Black pioneers who settled in northern Hamilton County in the 1830s.
“This exhibit will be a place to learn and reflect on the Black pioneers who settled in northern Hamilton County before the Civil War and are part of the rich heritage and extraordinary history of our county and the state,” Duke Energy Government & Community Relations Manager Mark LaBarr said.
When complete in mid-2024, visitors will be greeted by the State of Indiana Historical Marker and “Morning Light,” a dazzling entry feature symbolizing exploration, discovery, opportunity, and ownership. Beyond, the legacy walk meanders through four separate interpretive-themed stations dedicated to Roots & Migration, Progress & Perseverance, Faith & Education, and Legacy & Footprints. Each station includes a title monolith, a bench, and a graphic reader rail with interpretive content. Structures are fabricated from Corten-style steel and faux stone. It is intended that the Roberts Settlement Legacy Walk as well as the surrounding grounds are open to the public to enjoy as an inspirational spot to enjoy and embrace the rich history of Hamilton County.
“We are extremely grateful to have corporate partners like Duke Energy who support the historical significance of our family’s legacy to Hamilton County enabling us to share our story,” Roberts Settlement Board President La Vella Hyter said.
About Roberts Settlement
Roberts Settlement was established in 1835 by free people of color who migrated mostly from North Carolina and Virginia to escape deteriorating racial conditions. Their goals were the pursuit of economic, educational, and religious aspirations with greater freedom and fewer racial barriers. For 100 years the descendants have gathered annually for the family Homecoming to celebrate their shared history and renew family bonds.
In 2023, Roberts Settlement publicly unveiled plans for the Roberts Settlement Legacy Walk with support from the Lilly Endowment Inc. This project was funded in part by a grant from the African American Cultural Action Fund of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
For more information, visit RobertsSettlement.org.
About Duke Energy Indiana
Duke Energy Indiana, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides about 6,300 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 890,000 customers in a 23,000-square-mile service area, making it Indiana’s largest electric supplier.