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Case #2: The Old Manchester Docks, City of Richmond

Fifteen students from the Virginia State University chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences recently participated in a voluntary two-day cleanup effort to restore the Old Manchester Dock area for public use as part of the 1998 Fall River Renaissance.

The old Manchester Docks have a long and rich history dating back to the founding of the City of Richmond in the late 1600s. Before starting the extensive cleanup effort, the students were treated to a lesson in history by Ralph White, James River Park System Manager. The students learned that the Manchester Docks served as an unloading area during the African slave trade; a trading post during the Colonial era, and even as a naval shipyard during the American Civil War. Today, the old Manchester Docks are part of the James River Park System, and until recently used to be a popular area for the citizens of Richmond to fish and enjoy the James River.

Over the years, the dock area became overgrown with dirt (sediment) and debris from the flooding of the James River. Natural growth from brush and vegetation congested the area, and litter, old construction materials and potholes blocked public pathways leading to and from the River, creating a hazard for people visiting the area. The students spent two days working in teams to slowly restore the Manchester Docks City Park. Various teams removed debris such as sticks, vines and branches left behind from recent floods, while other teams raked, cleared away brush and picked up litter. The students even used a small boat to access debris and growth at the base of the docks along the edge of the river. The cleanup was a great learning experience for the students, and a tremendous help to the city park system.

Through this effort, the Manchester Docks City Park has been restored to life and can now be enjoyed by the citizens of Richmond. Future plans for the park include the erection of historical signage and markers that will interpret the history and significance of the site for visitors. This project is an example of how "Kids In Action" can make a big difference in preserving our parks and cultural resources, and help to restore our environment for future generations.