Lee-Walker Heights and Southside Reunions

Attending the reunion are (L-R) Valerie Harper, Everette Deck, and Gloria “Go-Go” Harper.  Photo: Urban News.

Staff Reports

 Lee-Walker Heights was built in 1951 for the families of soldiers returning from World War II. It was the first “transitional” public housing development for African Americans in Asheville. The apartments had modern conveniences including hot and cold water, showers, and central heat. People called the neighborhood “Diaper Hill” as a reflection of the pristine white diapers that greeted people along the entrance during the baby boom.

Lee-Walker Heights was built in Southside, the largest African
American community in Asheville and an area that was approximately 95
percent black. It reached north to Hilliard Ave., east to Biltmore
Ave., south to Oakland Rd., and west to Depot St. and Clingman Ave. 
Comprising approximately 407 acres of land, Southside was the largest
Urban Renewal project of its time (circa 1966-67) in the Southeast.

These two reunions were held to remind people of where they come
from, and how much they have accomplished. Out of humble beginnings
came doctors, lawyers, educators, engineers, and heads of state
government bodies.

Childhood friends from far and near greet each other at the Southside Reunion.

Manning one of the grills during the reunion are Alberta and George Clinkscales.  

Coming together for the first annual Lee-Walker Heights reunion are:
(Front row, L-R) Rosalyn Valentine, Pauletta Deck, Ms. Pauline Worthy, Hester Deck,
Eddie Beck. (Second row) Rev. Dameta Moore-Wilder, Sandra (Tiny) Moore, Annette Deck, Betty Jo Ducket, Ms. Cornelia Deck. (Back row, left and far right) Clifford Hallum
and Bernard “Bunny” Vinson.  Photo: Urban News.