The Historic Goldsboro Commemorative Quilt Project

The Historic Goldsboro Commemorative Quilt is more than a work of art – it is a testimony stitched with memory, resilience, and reconciliation. The Quilt began as an idea rooted in the City of Sanford’s ongoing commitment to truth-telling, healing, and unity through the Pathways to Reconciliation Project, a citywide initiative designed to face the city’s racialized history with honesty and chart a new path forward grounded in respect, equity, and belonging for all.

In early 2025, the City’s Race, Equality, Equity, and Inclusion (REEI) Advisory Committee began exploring creative ways to honor Historic Goldsboro, one of the first self-governing Black municipalities in the United States. Founded in 1891 by William Clark and 19 registered voters, Goldsboro stood as a beacon of Black independence and pride – a thriving community with its own government, churches, businesses, and schools. Indeed, Goldsboro was a testament to Black leadership, resilience, and innovation during a time of newfound freedom.

However, in 1911, Goldsboro’s municipal charter was revoked and the town was annexed into the City of Sanford. This legislative action stripped the community of its autonomy and self-governance and inflicted lasting wounds – economic, social, racial, and cultural – that reverberated throughout generations.