By Joel Dunn, President & CEO, Chesapeake Conservancy
Elktonia Beach, a 5-acre waterfront parcel on the Chesapeake Bay, is the last remnant of the original 180-acre property purchased by freedman, Frederick Carr, in 1902. Neighboring Carr’s and Sparrow’s Beaches were privately owned and operated by Frederick Carr’s daughters, Elizabeth Carr Smith and Florence Carr Sparrow. “The Beaches” (1930s-1970s), as they were called, were a sanctuary of joy, resilience and community, representing the heart of Black entertainment throughout the mid-Atlantic region during a time of segregation. Blacks were welcomed and danced to the music of Chuck Berry, Cab Calloway, The Temptations, Ike & Tina Turner, The Shirelles, Little Richard, and Billie Holiday.
For nearly 20 years, Blacks of the Chesapeake Foundation (BOCF), led by Vince Leggett, had been fighting to save Elktonia Beach from development. Working alongside Vince and our other partners to preserve this historic site was one of the proudest accomplishments of my career. Vince poured every ounce of his passion into this effort, and I feel honored to have stood by his side.
But getting that land wasn’t simple. Waterfront properties like Elktonia Beach are incredibly valuable, and it took millions of dollars to make it happen. Vince was the key. He had a relationship with the landowners, and it was his knowledge of the site’s history, his passion, and his storytelling that eventually won over the landowners and inspired everyone involved.
But most importantly, people trusted him with what mattered most—protecting the story of the land and the people who thrived there and ensuring it would be shared with future generations.
Vince had a way of bringing history to life. He could tell you about every band that played on that beach, every era it represented. He painted a picture that connected the past to the present. That ability was essential in rallying support for our work to preserve Elktonia Beach.
There’s one moment I keep replaying in my mind. This past Juneteenth, Vince organized a celebration at Elktonia-Carr’s Beach Heritage Park. It was perfect—great music, great food, and a community gathered in joy. And there was Vince, dancing in the middle of it all on the very beach he fought so hard to protect. That moment was pure magic.
Because of Vince’s dedication, countless generations will get to experience joy at Elktonia Beach, to feel its history, and to understand its significance. I’m so glad he got to enjoy it while he was here. I just wish he’d had more time.