Welcome to Downtown Raleigh, a place where history meets modern vibrancy. Founded in 1792, Raleigh was named after Sir Walter Raleigh, the English explorer who sponsored attempts to establish the first English colony in America. The city was meticulously planned from the outset, making it one of the earliest examples of a planned city in the United States. Its layout was designed with Union Square at the center, where the State Capitol building now stands.
As you stroll through the streets of Downtown Raleigh, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of history. During the American Civil War, Raleigh was captured by Union forces in the war’s closing days, but the city itself was spared from any significant destruction. Post-war, Raleigh struggled economically but eventually found its footing as a center of education and government.
The establishment of the Research Triangle Park in 1959 marked a turning point, transforming Raleigh into a hub of innovation and technology. This change has brought a wave of growth and development, with Downtown Raleigh now buzzing with tech companies, creative industries, and a rich cultural scene.
Raleigh’s historical narrative is also deeply interwoven with the African American experience. The South Park Heritage Trail tells the story of Raleigh’s largest historic African American neighborhood, showcasing the resilience and contributions of its community.
Notable figures have walked these streets, including Ella Baker, a prominent civil rights leader, and the students of Shaw University, who played a crucial role in the civil rights movement. Today, Downtown Raleigh continues to be a place where history and progress coexist, inviting visitors to explore its past while enjoying its vibrant present.
