Legacy

Dix Park is more than a public park—it is a place shaped by centuries of human history. From its earliest inhabitants to the generations of people who lived, worked, and sought care here, this land holds stories of resilience, change, and remembrance. As the park evolves, honoring these histories remains central to the vision for its future.

In 2015, as planning for Dix Park began, the Dix Legacy Committee was formed to ensure the site's history guided its future. Comprised of historians, scholars, and community voices, the committee continues to ensure the rich history of this land is shared with park visitors today.

Building on the work of the Legacy Committee, the City of Raleigh and the Conservancy collaborated on the Cultural Interpretation Plan, completed in June 2024. This plan ensures that the history of Dix Park is not just remembered, but actively shared. It outlines key themes, identifies opportunities for on-site interpretation, and recommends ways to engage the public in learning about the land's past.

The land that is now Dix Park holds many layers of history, stretching back thousands of years. Acknowledging and sharing these histories is central to the park's future.

Recognizing the depth of its history, Dix Park is part of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience, a global network of places committed to connecting past struggles to present-day conversations. This designation affirms the park's role as a space for reflection and learning—one that invites visitors to engage with its history in meaningful ways.