Schneider Park to Become Schneider Memorial Park, Honoring Forgotten Burial Ground
City Council — Akron - Ward 4 / Schneider Park
After a six-to-seven year effort by community advocates, Akron City Council voted unanimously to rename Schneider Park to Schneider Memorial Park, acknowledging the sacred history of the land where many poor and forgotten residents were buried.
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