Texas Woman’s University (TWU) is set to host two consecutive ribbon‑cutting ceremonies on October 20, celebrating both a new historic memorial and an expanded outdoor recreation area on its Denton campus.
Quakertown Memorial honors displaced residents
The first ceremony, beginning at 10 a.m. at 700 E. University Drive, will unveil the Quakertown Memorial. The memorial features a symbolic amphitheater with the names of former Quakertown residents permanently etched in stone, alongside a map of Denton as it appeared in 1920. The community of Quakertown, a historically Black neighborhood, was forcibly relocated to southeast Denton in the 1920s, and roughly 70 homes were destroyed during that process, according to city records.
“This memorial is both a permanent space to honor and remember the past and a place for future generations to learn, reflect and connect,” TWU Chancellor Carine Feyten said. “My hope is that it will bring our community closer together, deepen our understanding of our shared history and remind us of the importance of moving forward together.”
East Campus Outdoor Facilities open to the public
Immediately following the memorial dedication, university officials will open the East Campus Outdoor Facilities space. The new area includes fitness trails, a pavilion, and designated conservation zones. Attendees will help sow native wildflower and grass seed in a conservation zone, reinforcing TWU’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Film screening highlights Quakertown’s story
In partnership with the Denton Black Film Festival, TWU will present a screening of the documentary “Quakertown, USA” at 1 p.m. in the Phyllis J. Bridges Auditorium, Hubbard Hall. The film explores the history of the Quakertown community, the forced relocation, and the lasting impact on Denton’s cultural landscape.
Why the events matter to Denton residents
Both ceremonies underscore TWU’s role as a community anchor in Denton. By commemorating a painful chapter of local history and expanding recreational amenities, the university aims to foster a sense of shared heritage and promote healthy, family‑friendly activities for students, faculty, and neighbors alike.
Local officials and community leaders are expected to attend, offering an opportunity for dialogue about preserving Denton’s history while looking ahead to future growth. The events are open to the public, and TWU encourages residents to participate, plant native seeds, and learn more about the city’s past.
For more information about the ribbon‑cutting schedule, volunteer opportunities, or the documentary screening, visit the TWU news release page or contact the university’s Office of Community Relations.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Denton — read the source article.
