Macon County African American Heritage Trail
The Macon County African American Heritage Trail is a celebration of the lives and contributions of African Americans in the Macon County area. The mission is to educate today’s residents and visitors about the rich cultural history of a people whose stories have been largely unrecognized, but who directly shaped the place we call home. Our vision is to inspire conversation, expand understanding, and contribute to a better society.
The trail is a community-driven and volunteer-led initiative.
The first marker on the trail was installed at Ellsworth Dansby, Jr. Magnet School on September 23, 2025 honoring Ellsworth Dansby, Jr.
The second marker on the trail was installed at Parsons Elementary School on December 4, 2025 honoring Judge James Benton Parsons.
The third marker on the trail was installed on Merchant St. in downtown Decatur on September 1, 2026 honoring Black entrepreneurs.
The fourth marker on the trail will be installed at Millikin University honoring Blacks students and will be dedicated on October 3, 2026.
Visit the trail's website at mcafricanamericanheritage.org
Samuel Houston Singleton and Black Entrepreneurs Marker Dedication
Judge James Benton Parsons Marker Dedication
Ellsworth Dansby, Jr. Trail Marker Dedication
The second mural on the trail, "Advocate" was commissioned to be painted by Antonio Burton, aka "Toni Picasso" on the Webster Cantrell Youth Advocacy Building at the intersection of Eldorado St. and Water St. It was dedicated in August, 2026.
The first mural on the trail, "Practice Flight" was commissioned to be painted by Antonio Burton, aka "Toni Picasso" at Ellsworth Dansby, Jr. Magnet School. It was dedicated in September, 2025.
