Nah, you’re good! I think people just use the term loosely without understanding (or caring) that it’s a regulated title. The video above refers to him as an architect multiple times as well.
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Funny enough, it’s somewhat paradoxical how the Prince Hall Historic District is structured. The Lincoln Theater that you mentioned and the Pope House, both significant landmarks, fall outside its boundaries. Yet, Stronach’s Alley, a street now predominantly encircled by parking lots, is included within the district. This juxtaposition highlights a curious oversight in the delineation of the district, underscoring a disconnect between the physical layout and the cultural and historical significance of these locations.
Stronach’s Alley in Raleigh was once a vibrant neighborhood street, a lively corridor where houses stood proudly, facing each other, embodying a close-knit community spirit. It was more than just a thoroughfare; it was a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of the African American community in Raleigh. However, today, it stands as a stark reminder of the priorities that have shaped our urban landscape. In the rush to modernize, the very essence of this historic district was bulldozed, giving way to impersonal parking lots. This transformation starkly contrasts with the original spirit of the area, underscoring what has long been a disconnect in our urban planning priorities. The preservation of Stronach’s Alley in the historical overlay district serves as a bittersweet testament: the bones of the past remain, but they echo the loss of what was once a thriving community hub. The story of Stronach’s Alley is not just about what has been physically razed; it’s a narrative about the intangible heritage we’ve neglected and the cost of progress that often overlooks the richness of our diverse histories.
Personally, I believe the numerous parking lots in the Prince Hall district stand as a greater affront to its history than any new development could ever be. These vacant spaces, where once the heart of a vibrant community beat, now serve as silent witnesses to the erasure of a rich cultural heritage. It’s a glaring irony that while efforts are made to revive the district’s economic and social vitality, these efforts are often met with resistance. Notably, such opposition frequently comes from members of the Historic Oakwood neighborhood, who seem more concerned with maintaining this area as a buffer zone rather than genuinely preserving the historical integrity of Prince Hall. This attitude reflects a troubling pattern where the priorities of one community inadvertently—or perhaps, deliberately—undermine the potential revival of another. It’s a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics that often play out in urban development and historical preservation.
EDIT: "One more item that’s worth noting: The Masons, housed in the iconic Prince Hall building, have expressed their support and are in favor of this proposed hotel project. This stance is noteworthy, considering their integral role and historical ties to the district. However, the city’s approach to dictating what is appropriate for this historic district, especially against the wishes of its key stakeholders, is both perplexing and patronizing. The city’s stance not only undermines the autonomy of the district’s representatives but also reflects a broader issue of top-down decision-making in urban planning. Such a stance, which overlooks the voices of those most affected by these developments, can be described in two words: stupid and condescending.
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When you say ‘city’, do you mean the citizens on the Raleigh Historic Development Commission, or the city council?
When it comes to the development of the Prince Hall Historic District, the main responsibility lies with the Raleigh City Council. They need to create specific guidelines for new constructions, especially for larger projects. The focus should be on maintaining the historic character of the area while also allowing for economically viable development.
As for the input from Historic Oakwood residents, it’s important to remember that the primary stakeholders are those who live and own property in Prince Hall. Their experiences and knowledge of the district’s history are crucial in shaping its future. The City Council should prioritize these local voices over outside opinions to ensure that development respects the unique heritage and needs of the Prince Hall community.
I don’t/can’t blame the Raleigh Historic Development Commission. They’re doing what they’re supposed to be doing. The issue lies in the fact that there is no benchmark for how someone can build in this area in an economically viable way.
Raleigh could easily transform Stronach’s Alley into one of the most important landmarks in downtown Raleigh. Similar to Charlotte’s Latta Arcade Alley. Just work with developers/land owners to rebuild the neighborhood that was once single family homes into a modern mixed use block with amazing street level vibes. There’s already a freaking music hall. It’s just surround by gravel parking lots.
Heck the city could even work with Shaw to build student housing on the property to encourage black culture back to the Prince Hall District.
But instead we have nothing but parking lots and an overwhelming feel that any culture in this area died a long time ago.
It’s a shame that if that 20 story tower is built that will basically kill off the alley as being anything more than just an alley.
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I am tired of 20 stories
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Seems a bit fast for that area. Glad they hit the pole and affected themselves most of all, instead of a random pedestrian walking down the sidewalk.
Now imagine if someone was on a bicycle on the unprotected biker death lanes.
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Zoning for the hotel rezoning being proposed on 423 S Blount was deferred
This single family home looks complete now. What an awesome house, good for this family. I don’t have the stones to purchase garage doors like this, where all my stuff is on display like a showroom, but it sure looks cool.
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One thing I always wonder is what is that stain between the windows? Is that intentional or some graffiti?
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Really nice fire station.
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HashAlreadyTagged/s 
Its efflorescence from the bricks and/or mortar. When they get wet minerals dissolve in the water and get brought to the surface where they crystallize. It usually can be brushed right off.
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…they may end up with a few new “stones” if you catch my drift lmao. Highly ill-advised in that location, IMO 
They need some Florida hurricane glass!
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Bonus power lines. After all the $ the people spent building this new home, you don’t bury the utility wires? Yeesh.
Well look at that, the revised 423 S. Blount rezoning / COA got approved!
https://community.dtraleigh.com/t/the-raleigh-wire-service/748/2358?u=oakcityyimby
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It’s been so long. Can someone remind me what, if anything, is actually planned here?
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