December 4, 2025 – The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation and the Untold Stories Committee hosted a public ceremony on Thursday, Dec. 4, to unveil the second historical marker on the Macon County African American Heritage Trail. This marker honors Judge James Benton Parsons and Black educators. The new marker is installed at Parsons Elementary on the school’s playground at the rear of the building.
Representatives from the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, Decatur Public Schools District 61, the Lumpkin Family Foundation, the Untold Stories Committee, Parsons Elementary School, and the Macon County African American Heritage Trail Committee participated in the dedication.
“Judge Parsons understood the power of education, and his legacy continues to shape the work we do each day…He shared a vision that still guides us and is on the wall in our lobby. He said “The new elementary school will provide an oppurtunitiy for children to learn about America’s greatness and what must be done to keep it great.””, said Parsons Principal Holly Kitson.
The Macon County African American Heritage Trail was created to preserve and highlight significant local stories, individuals, and events that have often gone unrecognized. The newly unveiled marker honors Judge James Benton Parsons and Black educators whose contributions have shaped both the community and broader history.
