Final Decision on Asheville’s Confederate Statue Stirs Emotions on Both Sides of Debate

Final Decision on Asheville’s Confederate Statue Stirs Emotions on Both Sides of Debate

ASHEVILLE, NC – The decision to remove a prominent Confederate statue in downtown Asheville is now final, and folks on both sides of the argument had plenty to say. The unanimous decision from the North Carolina Supreme Court was announced, rejecting a lawsuit challenging the city’s removal of the Vance Monument in Pack Square Plaza.

The Controversy

The monument was erected in honor of former North Carolina governor and slave owner Zebulon Vance, who was born in Buncombe County. In 2020, the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners and the Asheville City Council voted to remove the statue, citing it as a “public safety threat in the community.”

The Removal

The monument, which had stood in Pack Square Plaza since 1898, was dismantled down to its base in May 2021. The Society for the Historical Preservation of the 26th Regiment North Carolina Troops sued to stop the removal.

Public Opinion

“The public space is for the public good, and I don’t believe anything associated with slavery or the slave trade has been or ever will be considered a public good,” said a supporter of the removal.

However, some expressed disappointment with the ruling, suggesting officials should have kept the monument but changed its name and purpose.

The Future

Asheville Mayor stated that the goal now is to transform the space into a place that celebrates inclusivity.


Author: HERE Asheville

HERE Asheville

Recent Posts

Asheville Grapples with Water Quality Challenges Post-Storm Helene

Asheville Faces Water Quality Issues Following Storm Asheville residents, brace yourselves for a little bit…

21 hours ago

Asheville Introduces Always Asheville Fund to Aid Local Business Recovery After Hurricane Helene

Asheville Launches Always Asheville Fund to Support Local Businesses Asheville, NC – In the wake…

21 hours ago

Winter Lights Enchants Asheville’s North Carolina Arboretum This Holiday Season

Winter Lights Returns to Asheville's North Carolina Arboretum Asheville is gearing up for a dazzling…

21 hours ago

Warm Hearts Shine in Asheville During Annual Coats for the Cold Giveaway

Warm Hearts in Asheville: Coats for the Cold Giveaway Asheville, N.C. was buzzing with excitement…

21 hours ago

Asheville Endures Prolonged Blue Ridge Parkway Closures Due to Hurricane Helene Damage

Asheville Faces Extended Blue Ridge Parkway Closures Following Hurricane Helene Asheville, a charming city nestled…

21 hours ago