One of Durham’s oldest and most-established neighborhoods, Morehead Hill, is home to stately brick homes, mansions, and historical landmarks. The area is largely a residential neighborhood of single-family homes, mixed with multi-unit apartments, duplexes, and some business establishments.
Close to some of downtown’s best entertainment and eating places, Morehead Hill encompasses several miles southwest of the downtown center. The neighborhood overlooks the historical Tobacco District.
The neighborhood encompasses Lakewood Avenue and Arnette Avenue to the west, West Chapel Hill Street to the North, South Duke Street to the east, and University Drive and Wells Street to the south. Durham Freeway cuts across the northeast corner of the neighborhood.
While some areas can only be traveled by car, there are a number of places within walking distance. Orchard Park, located directly in Morehead Hill, provides lush, grassy areas that are perfect for a sunny afternoon picnic. Grills, picnic tables, and a playground make Orchard Park an ideal family outing. Orchard Park is also the home to a community garden that is maintained by local residents and volunteers.
Third Fork Creek is located in the eastern portion of Morehead Hill and runs along the American Tobacco Trail, a 22-mile trail that travels through Durham.
Larger Forest Hills Park is located close by and offers additional picnic areas, tennis courts, soccer fields, and a water play area.
The non-profit, all-volunteer Morehead Hill Neighborhood Association is dedicated to improving and bettering the Morehead Hill area, and plays a vital role in maintaining the historical significance of the neighborhood. The area is a local historic district, but was also named a National Historic District in 1985.
Morehead Hill was established and named in the late 1800s, when Durham’s first banker, Eugene Morehead, purchased the highest plot of land in the district. Morehead was the son of John Motley Morehead, former governor of North Carolina.
Today Morehead Hill is a thriving residential community, mixed with some business and medical establishments. The neighborhood is home to Duke University’s Physician Assistant Program, and remains one of Durham’s premier locations to live and work.