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https://raleighnc.gov/parks-and-recreation/places/nash-square
03/06/2025 12:42 pm
Updated: Mar 6, 2025
Named after Abner Nash, the second governor of North Carolina, the lush landscape of Nash Square contains a lawn, a variety of perennials, and many native shade trees.
Four additional paths act as the park's main entrances, bisecting each sidewalk bordering the square along Dawson, Hargett, McDowell, and Martin Streets. Its present landscape design, implemented with Works Progress Administration funds, dates from 1940.
Nash Square in Raleigh, North Carolina, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1800s. The square was named after Abner Nash, a former governor of North Carolina. The square became part of the city's development during a time when Raleigh was expanding, and it was often used as a public gathering space.
The North Carolina Fallen Firefighters Memorial, located in the center of historic Nash Square in Raleigh, serves as a solemn tribute to firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Dedicated on May 6, 2006, the memorial features a central bronze sculpture titled "Heroism & Sacrifice," created by sculptor Carl W. Regutti. This sculpture depicts four life-size firefighters in a realistic, action-packed scene.
Artist Corey Lancaster was commissioned by the City of Raleigh to carve the Nash Square squirrel, fondly named Berkeley, from a 90-foot willow large oak that was removed from the park in 2019.
Learn more about the Squirrel Statue.
