New African American Heritage Trail marker to be installed at Drury

Courtesy African American Heritage Trail

A marker is being installed to recognize Church Square North, which includes Benton Avenue AME Church, pictured.

The African American Heritage Trail, which recognizes historical sites in Springfield, is expanding.

A ceremony is scheduled for 4 p.m. on Feb. 24 at the historic Washington Avenue Baptist Church, 900 N. Benton Ave., according to a news release from Drury University, the host for the event, which is installing a new trail marker at the site.

The event will unveil the marker that pays homage to Church Square North, honoring Washington Avenue Baptist Church and Benton Avenue AME Church.

"These churches provided spiritual guidance, education and refuge during times of racial violence," officials said in the release. "Benton Avenue AME was also home to Rev. Oliver L. Brown, who played a crucial role in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case."

Lyle Foster, a businessperson who is one of the leaders behind the African American Heritage Trail, said via email that existing grant funding would cover expenses related to the new marker. The initiative has previously received funding from the likes of Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc.

The African American Heritage Trail's website lists nine sites. The initiative got its start in 2018.