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Scott’s Grove was a predominantly Black community nestled along Highway 55 on the Apex-Cary border. At its heart stood Scott’s Grove Holiness Church and a one-room schoolhouse, where faith and education anchored daily life. The Grimes family also served their neighbors by operating a local rest home within the community.

Among Scott’s Grove’s most influential families were the Herndon’s. Garland Herndon was a farmer, entrepreneur, and community activist who served as a deacon at White Oak Missionary Baptist Church and ran Herndon’s, a beloved local store. His wife, Bertha Scott Herndon, dedicated herself to education as a teacher in Chatham County. Together, they built a household rooted in worship and service.
Their children carried that legacy forward. Son, Leon Herndon Sr., made history as the first Black principal of Apex High School and Enloe High School, an educator for 38 years. Daughter, Erseldine Herndon Bailey, taught mathematics in Virginia and North Carolina for 39 years. Daughter, Kathleen Herndon Lee, taught school in Chatham County and Wake County public school systems before becoming a national education consultant with IBM.
Their lives were a reflection of the values Scott’s Grove instilled — hard work, education, and community. The Herndon family later sold a portion of their land, which became the site of Turner Creek Elementary School, still standing on Highway 55 today. 

Off Highway 55, in Cary, NC you will find Bright Beginnings Child Development Center. Founded by Leon and Shirley Wright Herndon in 1999. Ms. Shirley, the director and co-owner, retired from the Wake County Public School System following a rewarding 32 year career as a teacher and assistant principal. 

In 2021, honoring both sides of the family — the Scotts and the Herndon’s — the Scott-Herndon Educational Foundation was established to carry their legacy into the future, providing educational opportunities for underprivileged communities throughout the surrounding area.
Scott’s Grove’s story is one of quiet strength. Its legacy lives on through the land, the families, and the generations who continue to carry its spirit forward.