A historical marker dedicated to acclaimed author Mebane Holoman Burgwyn will be unveiled on November 8, 2023, at 1 p.m. The ceremony will take place at the Church of the Saviour located at 201 North Church Street in Jackson, North Carolina. This event honors Burgwyn’s significant contributions to literature and her community, particularly her pioneering role in portraying African American characters with authenticity in children’s literature.
Rep. Rodney D. Pierce (D-27) will act as master of ceremonies for the dedication, which aims to highlight Burgwyn’s remarkable legacy. A native of Northampton County, Burgwyn was recognized as an award-winning author whose stories provided depth and dignity to young African American characters during an era when such representation was scarce. Her work has had a lasting impact on children’s literature and education.
In addition to her literary achievements, Burgwyn served as the director of guidance services for Northampton County Schools. She was a staunch advocate for youth and educational opportunities, holding positions on the boards of trustees at both the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and East Carolina University.
Community Leaders to Speak at Dedication
The dedication ceremony will feature several speakers who will pay tribute to Burgwyn’s life and work. Notable participants include J. Montgomery “Monty” Hux, mayor of Jackson, and Tony Burnette, a member of the Northampton County Schools Board of Education. Additionally, J. Malcolm “Sonny” Browne III, pastor of Church of the Saviour, will offer his remarks, along with William “Ed” Martin, chairman of the Northampton County Board of Commissioners.
Other speakers include Sinclair Nicholson, vice president of Workforce Development and Operations at Halifax Community College, artist and family friend Karen Vaughan, and Stephen Burgwyn, the son of Mebane Holoman Burgwyn.
The dedication event is free and open to the public. Following the ceremony, the unveiling of the historical marker will occur near the Northampton County Memorial Library. Community members are encouraged to attend, celebrating the life and enduring impact of one of eastern North Carolina’s most distinguished citizens.
