On Saturday, September 21, residents returned to Sagner Park for the Sagner Remembrance reunion, a heartfelt gathering that drew families together. Despite its current state—boarded up and set for demolition—the event was a vibrant celebration of community spirit and shared history.
Organized by dedicated community members, including Luanda Brown, the event featured a lively atmosphere filled with music, food, and a chance to reconnect. Attendees enjoyed the sounds of a local DJ, while a scrapbook showcasing the history of Sagner was available for viewing. This visual journey through time offered a glimpse into the lives and stories of past and present residents and a chance to reminisce on all who shaped the Sagner community. Hung across the park pavilion were pictures of long-time loved residents who have passed away. Their contributions to the community were honored, with stories shared that reflected their impact on the neighborhood. This remembrance honored the legacy of those who played key roles in making Sagner a cherished place to live.
“That event was created between the younger and older community to celebrate the love and memories of sagner. Hence the meaning of “Sagner Remembrance” to keep the memory alive. I’ve incorporated a slogan that states, “They built the walls but we built the memories!” And with that they are tearing it down we will always keep it up. It took our community to come together and keep coming together to keep it alive. And with my right hand Lori Prather, she is the one who made it all possible. I give my biggest love to her. Kenwyn Weedon who made those who passed able to be remembered and loved more. That day will always be remembered and will not be the last!” – Luanda Brown
Built in 1972, the Sagners neighborhood, now Lucas Village, was a subsidized housing complex for Frederick families. Pennsylvania Avenue and Sagner Court were the key arteries of the Sagner neighborhood that became the backdrop for countless memories, from neighborhood gatherings to everyday exchanges among families. Over time, residents shaped the identity of the community, embodying the togetherness that defined Sagner.
READ: Frederick Housing Authority Awaiting Approval for Lucas Village Demolition
While the planned demolition looms over the neighborhood, casting a shadow on its future, the reunion was a reminder of a rich history that many will not understand. The planned demolition is a painful chapter in Sagner’s history, signaling the loss of homes and a way of life that many cherished. Though physical structures may be lost, the spirit within this community can never be erased.
As families gathered to celebrate, reminisce, and remember, it was clear that the spirit of Sagner continues to thrive in the hearts of its people.The reunion was a revival of shared memories that once made Sagner a beloved home. Through gatherings like this, the legacy of Sagner will continue to be cherished and honored for generations to come.
