The home of Cleveland Turner, Houston's beloved Flower Man, will be razed by Cherry Companies on Feb. 7 due to a severe infestation of highly toxic mold making the structure and many of his possessions unsalvageable. To commemorate Turner, Project Row Houses and his church, First St. Matthew's Missionary Baptist Church, present a day that celebrates his life and visionary work.
His final home at 2305 Francis St. became a living work of art and has been recognized as one of the nation's best examples of African American yard-art while his sculptures gained international recognition, but Turner will always be treasured most for his presence. He will be remembered for his bicycle decorated with silk flowers, earning him the name "Flower Man."
Join at 3239 Simmons St. at 10 a.m. for a Second Line or 2305 Francis St. at 10:45 a.m. to celebrate and honor Turner's memory.
Schedule
- 10 a.m. - Second Line with Free Rads Second Line from the church (3239 Simmons St.) to Flower Man's House (2305 Francis St.)
- 10:45 a.m. - Welcome and remarks from Rick Lowe and the committee (2305 Francis St.)
- 11 a.m. - Special performance by the First St. Matthew's Missionary Baptist Church Choir
- 11:15 a.m. - Demolition (approximately 30 minutes)
- 11:30 a.m. - Crafts for commemorating Flower Man
- 11:45 a.m. - Community stories and performances with a song from Lisa Harris
- 1 p.m. - Community bike ride and walk organized by Autumn Knight, Lisa Harris and M'kina Tapscott