Durham, NCDurham--the fourth largest city in North Carolina--is home to Duke University, North Carolina Central University, and over a quarter million people. Incorporated in 1869, Durham has seen nearly 150 years of growth and change. However, spurred by collapse of the tobacco industry, cycles of disinvestment and reinvestment have contributed to uneven geographies that have led to the displacement of predominantly Black and poor communities. Yet, Durham residents are working to counteract the effects of deindustrialization and gentrification with hopes of having a voice--and a place--in the ever-evolving Bull City.
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The End of Tobacco
The first tobacco mill came to Durham in 1858 and the demand for tobacco grew after the Civil War. The tobacco industry in Durham led to jobs and wealth for many. However, when tobacco left Durham in the 1980's, the jobs and wealth went with it. Revitalization efforts as part of an urban renewal project in the early 2000's poured millions of dollars into the area--converting the old tobacco mills into luxury apartments, restaurants, and shops. Yet, these efforts have led to a change of character for Durham--pricing many longtime residents out of their hometown. Although this once-major industry left, the rise of the Research Triangle Park has led to new businesses making Durham their home. The tech industry now is beginning to transform this tobacco town.
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Infrastructure (dis)investment
The Hayti (pronounced "HAY-tie) district in Durham had long been the center of African American business. In the 1950s, plans for the development of the Triangle area created the need for an infrastructure project that would protect business interests. Out of this conceptual project came a bond referendum for the construction of NC Highway 147 (also known as the Durham Freeway). The construction of the highway began in the late 1960's. However, there is contention surrounding the effects of the highway on Black owned businesses and residential neighborhoods. Many believe that the highway contributed to the destruction of the area. As shown on the map, the highway dramatically changed the landscape of the district.
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“Past race-based policies on the federal, state and local level undergird economic disparities and gentrification today.”
North Carolina Poverty Research Fund
Growing Gentrification
via Tim Stallmann
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As the character of industry changes in Durham, so does the population. The effects of historic redlining zones are still felt today. The homes that were in red areas are now prime locations for home buyers and investors who are looking to make a profit. Now these areas have seen dramatically increased prices and the demographic of residents has shifted to a whiter population. Revitalization efforts have led to increased awareness of its effect on the city. Residents old and new have been critical of revitalization as it has led to property value increases which negatively impact less wealthy areas. The racial makeup, incomes, and median home values have all shifted in the last decade. Durham has become whiter, wealthier, and with higher property values. This leaves longtime residents who have called Durham home for generations wondering if they'll be able to continue living in the Bull City.
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"'Even now, when some of the effects of gentrification started to appear, it’s interesting how perfectly they overlay' with those old maps."
Heather Hunt
A Changing City
Explore more about Durham
Open Durham - Archival documentation and history about Durham
Durham Poverty - A North Carolina Poverty Research Fund Report
Dividing Durham - HOLC’s Survey of the Bull City
Changing Durham - Growth & Residential Integration Trends in Bull City
Durham Poverty - A North Carolina Poverty Research Fund Report
Dividing Durham - HOLC’s Survey of the Bull City
Changing Durham - Growth & Residential Integration Trends in Bull City