Church Park: A Legacy of Empowerment Founded in 1899 by Robert R. Church Sr., the first Black millionaire in the South, Church Park was the first urban park in the U.S. built and operated by an African American for African Americans. Located on Beale Street, it provided a safe space for concerts, rallies, and community events during segregation, hosting icons like Booker T. Washington. A symbol of Black resilience, it remains a testament to Church’s vision of uplifting his community through unity and culture. ✊🏾 #MemphisHistory #BealeStreet #BlackExcellence