James Vester Miller Park is much more than a place to swing, slide, and climb.
The park at 477 N. Louisiana Ave. is part of a broader effort to preserve Asheville’s legacy neighborhoods through community-led development projects.
What are Asheville’s legacy neighborhoods? The terminology comes from the Legacy Neighborhood Coalition, a group of community leaders representing neighborhoods in Asheville that have historically faced racial discrimination or currently face displacement.
Members of the coalition include Asheville-Buncombe Community Land Trust, Burton Street Community Association, East End/Valley Street Neighborhood Association, PODER Emma Community Ownership, Shiloh Community Association, and Southside Rising.
James Vester Miller Park will officially celebrate its new name and signage in the Emma community with a dedication ceremony this Saturday, May 24, from 12 to 2 p.m. A historical marker will be unveiled, honoring Miller, an influential Black mason responsible for building some of Asheville’s most historic architecture. Miller played a significant role in the Emma community, building his family home there.
Following the ceremony, there will be food and performances from Ballet Folklorico Raíces and members of the John R. Hayes High Steppin Majorettes and Drum Corps.
Projects like James Vester Miller Park represent a combined effort between the Legacy Neighborhood Coalition and La Esperanza Real Estate Cooperative to resist displacement in these neighborhoods by creating development that benefits current residents and helps ensure that they can remain.
Other projects from La Esperanza Real Estate Cooperative include Emma Station and El Porvenir Economic and Cultural Center.
