Ridgeview Community Center

Several hundred people filled the new Ridgeview community center in the summer of 1958, a project that has been in the works for years. An anonymous donor matched any funds raised by local clubs, making the center possible. Professor Taft H. Broome, principal of the Ridgeview schools and a Recreation Committee of leading Black citizens, spearheaded a project that would help the area. They wanted a place of recreation outside the school.

Attorney Thomas P. Pruitt, who urged the residents to unite to create the center, stated that “It was not built as a monument to the efforts of those who conceived it or raised the money for it or contributed to it; nor was it built to test the architect’s skill or serves as an example of their handiwork...The sole and only purpose in erection this building was for your right to use it.” This opening was deemed as something that would subdue the high racial tensions that were happening. Children did not have a proper place to play, so they either had to find an integrated sports field or simply not go when seeking recreation. This achievement allowed the community to become even more self-sufficient. 

Over 700 people attended the opening ceremony, and during its first week, over 3,000 people participated in some form of recreation. Volleyball, horseshoes, checkers, ping pong, and dominoes were among the favorites. Sports stars from Ridgeview High came to teach the children how to play sports. The Silhouettes, a famous quartet with a number hit on the R&B charts, “Get A Job,” included The Hill’s very own Bill Horton. The group came to sing during its opening week. The Community Center opened to the public that following Monday, and hundreds of children and teenagers attended the new facilities. Horseshoes, volleyball, checkers, cards, and ping pong. It was added to the Ridgeview block, which housed the Ridgeview campus, library, and pool. As of 2020, it is still open and is now the Ridgeview Recreation Center. 

“Community Center Seen As ‘Great Blessing’ For All.” Hickory Daily Record, June 2, 1958.

Martin, Ed. “Ridgeview Ceremonies ‘Culmination of Dreams.’” Hickory Daily Record, October 3, 1957.

“Ridgeview Plans Discussed; City Recreation Outlined.” Hickory Daily Record, May 13, 1958.