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Before Harlem, There Was U Street |
Meet: U Street/African-Amer Civil War Memorial/Cardozo (Green line, 13th Street exit)
Cost: $10
Children 3 and under free
For more information: www.washingtonwalks.com
Phone: 202-484-1565
Email: info@washingtonwalks.com
Explore the neighborhood that was shared by African American intellectuals, business leaders, and families of all economic levels. The businesses they owned and the houses they lived in are featured on this walk.
U Street was dubbed “Black Broadway” for the numerous movie theaters, nightclubs, and ballrooms frequented by jazz musicians like Cab Calloway, Pearl Bailey, Jelly Roll Morton, and the Duke himself. You’ll see a theater and club where these performances took place.
The first full service YMCA for African Americans, one of the few hotels that welcomed a black clientele, and the first memorial to African America soldiers who fought in the U.S. Civil War are also part of the walk route.
Homes occupied by the Ellington family as Duke grew up are also included, along with the corner where rioting started that extinguished they heyday of the area - but only temporarily. U Street has rebounded to become a must-see corridor for out-of-town visitors and locals alike.
What you need to know:
- No reservations necessary. Large groups should notify Washington Walks in advance.
- Your guide will be wearing a blue and green Washington Walks badge.
- This walk lasts approximately two hours.
- Walks are given rain or shine.
Sponsored by Washington Walks and Cultural Tourism DC