Does anyone know how the Museum of Durham History goes about placing historical markers? I've seen a few posted here lately and think it would be really cool to get a marker placed for George Wall somewhere in Walltown.. maybe even by his house?
The Museum of Durham History will open its newest exhibit, To Love and Live Free: The 1986 Mayoral Recall Fight and the Origins of Durham Pride, with a public celebration Friday, May 15, 2026, at 6PM at the Museum (500 W. Main St.)!
The event is free and open to the public and will include complimentary food and beverage courtesy of Queeny’s and Ponysaurus, as well as a special performance by members of The Common Woman Chorus! Featured speakers include former Durham Mayor Wib Gulley, activist and scholar Mab Segrest, activist and Pride organizer Meredith Emmett, exhibit curator Andrew Nurkin, and others.
Timed to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the 1986 recall campaign against Mayor Gulley, the exhibition explores the controversy that erupted after the mayor issued a proclamation supporting “Anti-discrimination Week” alongside Durham’s lesbian and gay Pride events.
The resulting backlash, and the broad coalition that fought against discrimination, became a defining moment in Durham’s history. Through archival materials, photographs, artifacts, and newly recorded oral histories, the exhibit traces how activists, clergy, librarians, elected officials, and everyday residents came together across lines of race, faith, and identity to defend equality and free expression.
Came across this interesting episode of Mary Lambeth Moore's "Recovering Debs" podcast from 2024 where she interviews Lisa Grabarek (daughter of Wense Grabarek, who served as Mayor of Durham from 1963–1971). Lisa Grabarek very reluctantly presented at The Durham Debutante Ball Society's Debutante Cotillion and Christmas Ball in the 1960s.
A mass celebrating O'Shea's life was held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and followed by a celebration of life at Croasdaile Country Club.
"Though his time with us was brief, Jack Francis O'Shea lived a life of adventure, courage, and fearlessness. He touched the lives of all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and strength that will inspire us always," his family wrote. "May he rest in peace, embraced by the love of those who hold him dear."
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Jack’s name to:
Eno River Association
https://www.wral.com/news/local/memorial-service-jack-oshea-april-2026/
