Schneider Park to Become Schneider Memorial Park, Honoring Forgotten Burial Ground

Councilwoman Jan Davis brought forward a resolution to rename Schneider Park to Schneider Memorial Park at the March 2, 2026 council meeting. The resolution passed unanimously 13-0. Background: - The park sits on land that served as a burial ground for poor residents, many of whom have been largely forgotten - The renaming effort took six to seven years of advocacy - Led by Jane Greenland and Dr. Burman, with research support from Dr. Atney and the University of Akron - The new name — Schneider Memorial Park — acknowledges and memorializes those who were laid to rest there What's Next: - A memorial marker will be installed at the park - A dedication ceremony is planned - The resolution was adopted as Mayor and Council as a whole Why This Matters: This is a significant act of historical acknowledgment. The renaming ensures that future generations understand the sacred history of the land and provides a place of reflection and remembrance for the community. Source: City of Akron Council Meeting, March 2, 2026