Remembering Through Art

Recognizing this history, the Quilt was envisioned as an artistic project that would recognize Goldsboro’s rich history and honor the memories of its residents. To do so, the REEI Committee invited residents and descendants to share their stories at a Goldsboro Storytelling Gathering held at the Dr. Velma H. Williams Westside Community Center in July 2025. During the gathering, community members spoke of family pride, faith, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of Goldsboro.

From these stories, the Westside Quilters, a beloved collective of artists, began the process of transforming memory into fabric. With care, love, and artistry, they converted stories into fabric, colors, and patterns – each square representing a facet of Goldsboro’s rich and complicated legacy. Today, the stunning Historic Goldsboro Commemorative Quilt is displayed as an historical account and visual narrative of strength, hope, and belonging.