Washington Street Playground

Front: In 1942 a group of local African American leaders known as the Beaufort County Negro Recreational Association acquired around one acre of land at this site for a “Recreational Center for Negro Citizens.” Upon opening, it was the only public playground in Beaufort open to African Americans. In 1945-46 playground equipment was first installed with support from Beaufort City Council and local civic groups. Reverse: Eventually named for nearby Washington Street, the playground became an important local gathering venue for Black residents. It hosted athletic contests, performances, religious services, and other events. In 1959, Youth Center Inc. began a long-term lease of the property. That group and the Association merged in 1993 to form the Beaufort County Community Center. By that time the site was known as Washington Street Park.