Chappell statue unveiled
Fred Chappell. File photo
The Haywood County Public Library recently unveiled a memorial to Fred Chappell at its Canton branch, which honors his literary achievements and dedication to teaching creative writing.
A native of Canton and graduate of Canton High School, Chappell (1936-2024) authored over 30 books of poetry, fiction, and criticism. He was North Carolina’s Poet Laureate from 1997 to 2002 and a distinguished English professor for 40 years at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Chappell was inducted into the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame in 2006. Among his awards are the Sir Walter Raleigh Prize and the North Carolina Award in Literature.
The Fred Chappell Memorial is located at the entrance of the Canton Branch of the Haywood County Public Library and features a small courtyard design with a curved seat wall and art sculpture. The metal sculpture, depicting Chappell’s books, was created by Haywood County artist Grace Cathey.
Privately funded, the memorial is a collaborative effort of Chappell’s family with the Town of Canton, Haywood County Government, the Canton Area Historical Museum and the HCPL.
The Canton branch of the HCPL is located at 11 Pennsylvania Ave.
