An eastern Delaware town has voted to change the name of one of its Delaware Bay beaches in honor of a previous Black organization owner. The beach in Lewes, formerly named Beach 2, will now be called Johnnie Walker Beach after the African American business owner who produced an inviting atmosphere for Black families throughout the years of segregation in the 1950’s and 1960’s.
The name change was prompted by suggestions from the African American Heritage Commission.”I’m simply excited that we have actually gotten to this point, and I’m thrilled with the psychological reaction from it, “Kay Carnahan, the Parks and Entertainment commissioner who led the modification, informed The News Journal.”I believed I was just asking for a name, and I was really impressed at what this has actually truly implied to this community.”
Johnnie Walker’s dining establishment was an open pavilion which often included live music and used Back families a place to discover connection in their community, according to reporting from The News Journal.”There was a separation, however you didn’t even think about it, “stated the Rev. George Edwards, chair of the African
American Heritage Commission, in an interview with the News Journal. “I mored than happy here. “The city and chamber of commerce plan to update all maps and brochures prior to the 2022 beach season starts.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control is also checking out recreating the Johnnie Walker structure on that beach, according to Lewes Mayor Ted Becker.The African American Heritage Commission is also working with the city’s Parks and Leisure Commission and the Lewes Historical Society to produce a state historic marker for the beach.According to the News Journal, Carnahan stated she hopes the commissions can establish displays at the beach so that visitors can learn more about the town’s history.”
This was such a resilient community, “she said throughout a city council conference recently.”That’s what I believe we ‘d like the story to inform.” Beach 1, a little west up the shore from Johnnie Walker Beach, is likewise getting a new name. The beach is situated at the end of East Savannah Rd. therefore the Lewes City board chose to call it Savannah Beach.