Project Description

Community Built Living Monuments & Heritage Preservation

Developing a connected living archive across historic sites, sacred grounds, and community memory, establishing a practical, repeatable model for local preservation, outdoor belonging, and public history across Appalachia.

About the Affrilachian Trail®:

The Affrilachian Trail® is an initiative created and led by Innovative Community Solutions to connect cultural heritage assets with natural landscapes across the region. Moving beyond static stone markers, the Trail links historic homes, sanctuaries, cemeteries, and community gatherings into a unified network.

Guided directly by local descendants and elders, this place based framework elevates undertold stories of Black self-determination, mutual aid, and civic leadership while fostering regional economic vitality and outdoor recreation.

  • Key Sites & Anchors

    • Storer College (Harpers Ferry): Historic campus for Black higher education and site of the 1906 Niagara Movement

    • Fairview & St. Paul Cemeteries: Sacred grounds holding Black Civil War veterans and local families, currently being documented for National Register nominations.

    • Webb-Blessing & Weaver-Gillison Houses: Residential landmarks telling vital stories of family continuity, land ownership, and local architecture.

    • Descendant Advisory Circle: Community led governance ensuring local families maintain direct stewardship over their cultural heritage.

POWER LOCAL HISTORY & COMMUNITY GROWTH

Your support helps restore historic landmarks, empower youth through the arts, and keep local heritage alive. Connect with us today to start making a difference.