Community Leader Honored
A historical marker honoring Sam Reynolds, an important leader of Eugene’s African American community, was unveiled May 31 at LTD’s Sam Reynolds station. About 50 people, including community leaders and more than a dozen members of the Reynolds family, attended the dedication at the EmX stop on West 11th Avenue near Bertelsen Road. The stop is named for Sam Reynolds.
People gathered at the Sam Reynolds transit station for the May 31 unveiling of a historical marker honoring Sam Reynolds and his wife, Mattie, leaders of Eugene’s African American community.
“Their story is a testament to the fortitude and grace of many African-American families demonstrated during some of our country’s darkest times,” said state Sen. James Manning of Eugene, who spoke at the ceremony.
Ed Reynolds, son of Sam and Mattie Reynolds, unveils the historical marker which will be permanently on display at the transit station in west Eugene.
Lylle Parker, one of eleven Reynolds children, said her father “opened doors that some folks walked through and didn’t even realize that door was opened by Sam Reynolds.”
Lylle Parker, daughter of Sam and Mattie Reynolds, shared stories and of her parents and life growing up in west Eugene
A reception followed the event at the nearby St. Mark Christina Methodist Episcopal Church. The church has been an important to part of the Reynolds family over several generations.
Deloris Wilson, daughter of Sam and Mattie Reynolds, visited with others during a reception at the St Mark Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.
Register Guard, May 31, 2018: New marker honors one of Eugene’s founding black families