Additional Entrance Signs Will Mark Historic African American Neighborhoods

A project to install signs honoring and celebrating historic African American Neighborhoods in the City of Virginia Beach is entering Phase II.  

As part of an ongoing effort to recognize and preserve the rich cultural heritage of local, historic Black communities, these additional signs will bring the total number of neighborhood signs installed at communities across the city to nine. 

Signs of History 

During Phase I in fall 2024, Beechwood (District 9), Burton Station (District 4), New Light (District 7) and Queen City (District 1) were the first neighborhoods to receive signs. More signs will be installed at Gracetown (District 9), Lake Smith (District 9), Mill Dam/Great Neck (District 8) and at Seatack (District 6) this summer, during Phase II. The Seatack sign will replace an existing one that was damaged by a vehicle on the southern side of the community. This phase will also include improvements to an existing sign at Doyletown (District 3). 

In the spring, the City will solicit bids for contractors to construct and install the remaining signs, which have a brick base and two columns flanking a concrete face. Each displays the name of the neighborhood and beneath it the words, “An African American Historic Community.” Both are spelled out in bronze lettering.   

More information about this project and instructions for submitting construction bids will be posted to YesVirginiaBeach.com once the submission window opens in the coming weeks. 

Background 

Most of these neighborhoods were established during the period between Reconstruction and the dawn of the Civil Rights Movement in the South. The project, championed by Councilmember and District 4 representative Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond, aims to educate residents and visitors about the history of these neighborhoods and the resilience of the families who established them. 

The council member noticed that many long-standing African American neighborhoods lacked entrance signs designating their name and location. Concerned that the history of these neighborhoods was at risk of being forgotten by younger generations, she advocated for the sign program as a way of preserving their history and recognizing the often overlooked stories behind their origins. 

“These signs are an important step in acknowledging the diverse history of our City,” Ross-Hammond said. “We are committed to telling the stories of these communities that have shaped Virginia Beach. These signs foster a deeper understanding of our diverse history, promote cultural inclusivity and will help ensure that future generations can learn about and honor their legacy.”  

For more information about Virginia Beach’s historical African American neighborhoods and the City’s ongoing efforts, visit VirginiaBeach.gov/HistoricNeighborhoods.