Autumn leaves are all abound here in Washington, D.C. The beautiful foliage and transitional weather are the perfect combination for exploring unique Washingtonian history. I decided to take advantage of this picturesque day and explore some unique finds outside of Georgetown.
Today I traveled to the vibrant neighborhood of Cardozo in the heart of U Street. It was here where I found many tourists and Washingtonians enjoying cuisine from popular black-owned businesses while relaxing in outdoor seating as popular main-stream tunes filled the air.
Have I mentioned that I love D.C.? It is a complete vibe!
U Street used to be referred to as the Black Renaissance of the 1800’s and early 1900’s. It was a safe haven for successful Black entrepreneurs, culture, literacy, and the arts.
Black Broadway was the “it” place to see live performances from many well-known names such as Lillian Evanti (the first international African American opera singer), Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, The Clovers, and more.
Jazz musician, Duke Ellington was one of the most famed names to grace the area and was also a native Washingtonian himself.
The childhood homes of Duke Ellington.
During the peak of the Jim Crow period, the Black Broadway vicinity was home to around 300 Black-owned establishments. There were nightclubs, theatres, sports clubs, restaurants, shops, and more. Simultaneously, nearby Howard University attendees such as Thurgood Marshall, Zora Neale Hurston, and Langston Hughes also poured their literacy and resources into the area as it rose to the acclaim as the heart of Black culture in all of America.
Large crowds gathered at this famed intersection of 14th St and U Street on the evening of Thursday, April 4 1968 as the news of Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination spread.
As a lover of the performing arts, seeing the Howard Theatre was my highlight for today. The landmark was created in 1910 and drew audiences from all over the country. The Howard Theatre housed talent contests, live music, movies, plays, and a generalized assortment of entertainment.
I now view Washington, D.C. as the epitome of culture in America as it truly personifies a melting pot of American history, educational resources, art, global dignities, and so much more.
I’m so happy to call this place my home!
Thanks for reading,
Sierra
