The Block

Artist Winston Wingo's bronze relief is based on the collective memories of former residents who recall when Eagle and Market Streets, known as The Block, were the heart of the African American community in Asheville. The "Young Men's Institute," a focal point across the street, still hums with community and activity. Designed by famed architect Richard Sharp Smith, the YMI Center was partially funded by George Vanderbilt and was created to serve Asheville's Black community and employees of Biltmore House and its surrounding estate.