CARRBORO, NC -- The Town of Carrboro will mark the designation of the Honorary Strayhorn Drive at a public gathering set for 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, at the corner of Jones Ferry and Laurel Avenue.  

The Town Council approved the request for the honorary street sign at Laurel Avenue last spring. In Carrboro, honorary street names are signs posted below standard public Town street names which are intended to recognize and honor individuals, groups or events for a period of time without changing the official name of the street or the official addresses of residences and businesses.  

The new sign honors the importance of Toney and Nellie Strayhorn, who are believed to be the first Black family to settle in Carrboro. Their descendants have lived in Carrboro since 1879, before the town was incorporated. Learn more about the Strayhorn Family at https://www.carrboronc.gov/2307/Our-Roots-Run-Deep-Black-History-in-Carr 

At the recognition event, Mayor Barbara Foushee will share brief remarks alongside family members including Dolores and Lorie Clark. 

Members of the public are encouraged to find public parking away from the corner and family residence to reserve parking availability for members of the family who will be visiting. 

Photo caption – The historic Strayhorn Drive sign has been installed at Laurel Avenue and will be recognized by local leaders and family members at 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29. Pictured here are Ben Lang, Brian Cox and Brian Griffith of the Carrboro Public Works Department.