This week what had long been called Mini Park in the Pleasant Valley neighborhood got a new name. At a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony on Tuesday, it was christened H.C. Meriwether Park. The new name honors of one of the first African-American Fort Dodgers to be a business owner in our town.

The park is on 10th Avenue Southwest between Eighth Street and Ninth Street.

This worthy recognition of one of the many individuals who have helped build Fort Dodge into thriving community had widespread support. It was championed by the Pleasant Valley Awareness Group as well numerous individuals. The park has long been supported actively by the H.C. Meriwether Masonic Lodge, which currently sponsors the park through the city’s adopt-a-park program.

The Messenger applauds this renaming. It’s important to find ways to recall and recognize the contributions community members have made in our city’s long history. Singling out H.C. Meriwether for this honor is an excellent choice.