Historic Black settlements in North Texas are facing a looming threat as urban development continues to encroach on their land. Garden of Eden, a community straddling Fort Worth and Haltom City with roots dating back before the establishment of Fort Worth in 1849, is one such example. Trina Sanders, a lifelong resident, has witnessed firsthand how industrial buildings have transformed her once-lush farmland into a dumping ground for trash and pollution.
A Fight for Preservation
A team of professors and students from UT Arlington has embarked on a mission to safeguard the future of Garden of Eden and other historical Black settlements in the region. Led by architectural historian Kathryn Holliday, the project aims to address the environmental and health risks faced by these communities due to rapid urbanization.
Investing in the Past for the Future
The project received a $40,000 grant to map freedmen towns along the Trinity River and develop a design playbook tailored to the needs of historical Black settlements. Holliday emphasizes the importance of cities supporting these communities and preserving their cultural heritage for future generations.
The Legacy of the Cheneys
Garden of Eden traces its origins to the Cheney family, who settled in the area in the 1830s and established a thriving community based on agriculture. Despite facing challenges such as population decline and industrial encroachment, the descendants of the Cheneys remain committed to preserving their heritage.
Building a Sustainable Future
In collaboration with UT Arlington, community members are exploring sustainable urban design, environmental landscape planning, and affordable housing solutions for Garden of Eden. Students have proposed various projects, including a green infrastructure network and a neighborhood commercial area, to revitalize the neighborhood while protecting residents' well-being.
A Unified Front for Preservation
As Garden of Eden and other historical Black settlements grapple with the impact of industrial development, residents like Andrew Sanders stand firm in their resolve to protect their land and legacy. The fight for preservation is not just about preserving a community's past but also ensuring its future in the face of growing urbanization.
Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, these communities strive to reclaim their historic roots and carve out a sustainable path forward in a rapidly changing landscape.