Welcome to Little Sugar Creek Greenway, a unique blend of history, art, and nature in Charlotte, North Carolina. This greenway is more than just a scenic trail; it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of Mecklenburg County’s past.
The Little Sugar Creek Greenway is home to the Trail of History, an ambitious public art project that began over a decade ago. This trail features life-size bronze statues of notable figures who have significantly contributed to the region’s history. Among the first to be honored was Jane Renwick Smedberg Wilkes, a pioneering hospital founder from the 19th century. Her statue was unveiled in May 2013, marking the beginning of an ongoing tribute to the area’s historical figures.
As you stroll or cycle along the greenway, you’ll encounter statues of historical figures like Thaddeus Lincoln Tate, an influential African-American businessman from the 1920s who played a key role in the growth of black-owned enterprises in Charlotte. His contributions also extended to the spiritual community, as a co-founder of Grace AME Zion Church.
The greenway itself is a work in progress, with plans to extend it to a total of 20 miles, connecting uptown Charlotte to the state line. This expansive project aims to integrate ecology, recreation, and history, making it an essential part of Charlotte’s urban landscape.
In addition to the Trail of History, the greenway is also the site of the annual Kings Drive Art Walk, where art and nature harmoniously converge, offering a space for artists and visitors to engage with creative works in a vibrant outdoor setting.
As you explore the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, you’re not only embracing the beauty of nature but also stepping into the stories of the past. From the contributions of early settlers like Thomas “Kanawha” Spratt and Catawba tribal Chief King Hagler to those of modern-day visionaries, the greenway is a living museum that celebrates the diverse history of Charlotte and its people.
