It’s easy to overlook the history of Washington, D.C. when we are constantly surrounded by high-end retail stores, exotic restaurants, million-dollar homes, and European cars. From Iconic sites like The Howard Theatre and Ben’s Chili Bowl to the famous Go-Go music, everyone must realize that Washington, D.C. wouldn’t be the place it is without the influence of Black Americans.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture
Designed by Tanzanian-born British architect David Adjaye, the National Museum of African American History and Culture was inspired by the Yoruba Caryatid which is a traditional column with a crown on top. Unlike other buildings and monuments in D.C. that are made of sandstone, this museum is made of bronze-colored aluminum panels as a way to pay respect to southern slaves who performed the iron lattice work. Not only does the bronze/golden color pay homage to slaves, but it is also a reminder of Africa royalty as those colors represent wealth, prestige, and beauty. From a geographical perspective, the museum overlooks the Washington Monument (modeled after obelisks created by ancient BLACK Egyptians) and that serves as a reminder of the long-lasting impacts of the African contribution to the world.
The National Council of Negro Women
The National Council of Negro Women was founded by activist Mary McLeod Bethune (1875-1955) in 1935. The purpose of this organization was / is to inspire African American women to become leaders for their communities. Since 1955, the NCNW has been the first and only black organization to have its headquarters on the well-known Pennsylvania Avenue.
That Blue House in Georgetown
Alfred Pope (1821 – 1906) and Hannah Cole Pope (1828 – 1910) were a well-known black couple in Georgetown. Hannah was born a slave and was then sold to South Carolina Congressman John Carter in 1845. She met Alfred Pope in this household and they got married in 1847. They lived in this home while staying active in real estate and public affairs.
Howard University
Also known as the “Black Harvard,” Howard University was founded in 1867 in Washington D.C. and was named after General Oliver Otis Howard, who was head of the post-Civil War Freedman’s Bureau.
Purpose is the essential element of you. It is the reason you are on the planet at this particular time in history. Your very existence is wrapped up in the things you are here to fulfill.”
Most Notable Black Alumni:
- Kamala Harris, 49th Vice President of the United States
- Thurgood Marshall, Lawyer and Civil Rights Activist
- Lawrence Douglas Wilder, 1st elected African American governor of the U.S.
- Elijah Cumming, U.S. House of Representative and Civil Rights Leader
- Phylicia Ayers-Allen (Phylicia Rashad) and Debbie Allen, Actresses
- Chadwick Boseman, Actor
- Laz Alonso, Actor
- Anthony Anderson, Actor
The United States Capitol
I’ll be back for more, but for now, here’s a glimpse!
Thanks for reading!
