Unveiling the Legacy: The Story Behind the Naming of the Dr. Dock J. Jordan and Carrie Thomas Jordan Highway
March 1, 2025
The recent announcement by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to honor Dr. Dock J. Jordan and Carrie Thomas Jordan by naming a highway after them marks a significant moment in recognizing their impact on the community. This gesture is more than a road; it highlights the legacies of two individuals who dedicated their lives to service, education, and uplifting their fellow North Carolinians.
The Life of Dr. Dock J. Jordan
Those traveling between Timothy Avenue and Lawson Street now see signs designating Dr. Dock J. Jordan and Carrie Thomas Jordan Highway.
Dr. Jordan was born in 1866 in Georgia, the son of slaves. He taught and served as an administrator in secondary schools and colleges.
He also aggressively sought equal opportunities and right for Black people. While in Georgia, he worked with W.E.B. Dubois to defeat proposed legislation in the state legislature that would have closed one half to two-thirds of Black public schools.
Dr. Jordan also wrote an open letter to President Woodrow Wilson, blaming him for causing the East St. Louis race riots in 1917. About 3,000 whites attacked Blacks, killing more than 100 and burning their homes. The Governor of North Carolina at the time, Thomas Bickett, did not like Jordan’s remarks and asked prominent Black leaders in North Carolina to denounce him.
The Impact of Carrie Thomas Jordan
Carrie Thomas Jordan also played a critical role in enhancing community life. Known for her warmth and compassion, she dedicated her time to various charitable causes and community initiatives. As an educator and mentor, Carrie emphasized civic responsibility. She believed in the power of young people to effect change, encouraging countless youths to take part in engaging service projects that fostered community pride.
Carrie Thomas Jordan served as superintendent of public Black schools in Durham. She solicited private funds to build 12 new schools for Black students in Durham, which were built from 1923 to 1926.
At the time, Black students were instructed in a vocational curriculum of cooking, sewing and farming. Jordan replaced that with a curriculum from white schools that included reading, writing, spelling, geography and other topics. She also raised money for the first African American commencement exercises in Durham County.
The Highway Naming Ceremony
The unveiling ceremony for the Dr. Dock J. Jordan and Carrie Thomas Jordan Highway united family, friends, and community members who shared stories reflecting the couple's enduring influence. Local leaders such as Mayor Leonardo Williams and federal officials like Congresswoman Valerie Foushee, praised the Jordans for their commitment to bettering North Carolina, emphasizing the importance of recognizing such admirable legacies through meaningful tributes.
NCDOT's decision to name the highway in their honor underscores how infrastructure shapes communities. Highways are not just pathways; they symbolize connections we create and the stories we carry. Naming a road after individuals who valued service and connection is fitting and significant.
Community Reaction and Support
The community’s response to the highway naming has been overwhelmingly positive. Many residents express gratitude for recognizing two local heroes dedicated to societal betterment. Social media and local newspapers overflow with comments praising the Jordans' contributions to education and health initiatives.
Local organizations and youth groups are planning events to celebrate the Jordans' legacy. These initiatives aim to empower young individuals through education, community service, and leadership opportunities, inspired by the Jordans' commitment to uplifting the community.
The Significance of Commemoration
Naming a highway after Dr. Dock and Carrie Jordan is more than a ceremonial act. It serves as a reminder of the values they represented: education, community service, and justice. Every time someone drives along this highway, they remember the legacies that shaped the community and the importance of continuing their work.
Moreover, commemorating figures like the Jordans encourages younger generations to engage in societal development. It instills a sense of responsibility and desire to contribute positively to the community, reflecting the Jordans' spirit of service.
Future Initiatives Inspired by the Jordans' Legacy
As the community reflects on the Jordans' impact, there is a growing effort to establish scholarships and mentorship programs in their name. These initiatives aim to create pathways for students pursuing careers in education and public service, ensuring that the Jordans' legacy inspires future generations.
Additionally, community leaders are organizing an annual event to commemorate the Jordans. This gathering will unite residents for service projects and educational workshops, reinforcing the importance of community involvement and solidarity.
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
The dedication of the Dr. Dock J. Jordan and Carrie Thomas Jordan Highway stands as a testament to the profound influence that one couple's life work can have on a community. By honoring their contributions, the North Carolina Department of Transportation not only recognizes the past but also paves the way for a brighter future for all citizens of North Carolina.
The legacy of Dr. Dock and Carrie Jordan encourages individuals to strive for greatness in their pursuits, to serve others, and to build meaningful connections. As the highway winds through the landscapes of North Carolina, it will serve as a constant reminder of the commitment to education, community service, and the significant impact of individual lives devoted to the greater good.
The love and devotion shared by Dr. Dock and Carrie Jordan continue to inspire a generation dedicated to fostering positive change and community unity. Celebrating their contributions honors not only their memory but also the ongoing journey toward a better and more equitable society.
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