Greensboro Daily Photo

Desegregation of the Greensboro City Schools

The Greensboro City Schools were desegregated in 1971. Last night, four local residents, who attended school during the early years of desegregation, shared their personal experiences  to Beta Delta, a Greensboro chapter of NC Delta Kappa Gamma, a society of key women educators. Chapter President April Dunovant and Andrea Green, Vice President and Chair of the Educational Excellence Committee, assembled the panel. From left to right, Elaine McRae, Ragsdale High School; David Moore, Dudley High School; Dr. Joanna Evans Lynn, Dudley High School; Francine Scott, Dudley High School (and UNCG).  Elaine spoke about how her high school experience in an integrated school was very good, but only learned recently that the experience was not always as positive for her African American classmates. David Moore and Dr. Lynn both have books about their experiences. Mr. Moore talked about how the Dudley students were not completely on board with the idea. He also said that many of the white students that came to Dudley were from the White Oak Mill Community. As it turned out, the White Oak students were grateful for their Dudley experience because of the great course offerings available at Dudley.  Dr. Lynn worked in the Virginia Public Schools teaching during the first year of integration. Francine Scott graduated from Dudley and also worked there.

The Beta Delta members were very engaged and had several questions for this informative panel.  It is  important to remember our history and use what we have learned to make the future better. Having conversations with diverse groups about their life experiences helps us grow in unexpected ways.  We are really lucky the above four were willing to share their wisdom.

Happy Thursday!

 

February 1, Greensboro Sit Ins

February 1st is a big day in Greensboro, NC, and in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. It is the day that four students from NC A&T University walked from the university to the Woolworth store on South Elm Street in downtown Greensboro. * Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil,  Ezell Blair, Jr., and David Richmond were four college freshman when they last down at the "whites only" lunch counter at the 5 & dime and declared they would not leave until they were served a cup of coffee.

Now, we know, that day represented more than just a cup of coffee. The above photo features the A&T Four statue on campus on the day celebrating the event. The sculpture is the artwork of Greensboro artist and sculptor James Barnhill.  Head over and see it today. If you are at the Greensboro Curb Market on Yanceyville, you are just a block away!

Happy Saturday!

 

* See information HERE.

Wyndham, Gillespie and the Golfer

Yesterday, we featured the above mural at the Gillespie Golf Course.  We love today's angle of the photo of the mural of the Greensboro Six. It leads the eye to one of the golfers who was out playing the 9-hole course on Tuesday. The photo, from this orientation,  shows how well the course is maintained. In learning more about the mural and the Wyndham tournament, we finally made the connection between the mural and Wyndham; which, starting today and until August 11th,  will be held at the Sedgefield Country Club.

Wyndham Rewards is a program associated with the Wyndham Golf Resorts and they partnered with First Tee- Central Carolina to make this mural and the documentary about it a reality. The project was announced last year at the 84th Wyndham Championship. So as we watch people playing the championship, know that the company associated with it has done this good deed for the community. As you may have heard, fans aren't allowed to attend today due to the threat of bad weather. Let's hope the golfers are safe and the weather permits the tournament to go on. We would like to thank Wyndham Rewards for the mural and love the fact that Greensboro cares about its Civil Rights history. May the Gillespie Golf Course, First Tee- Central Carolina, and the Wyndham all continue to be a part of Greensboro for a very long time.

Happy Thursday!

Gillespie Golf Course History & Mural

Yesterday, we had a chance to visit Gillespie Golf Course in Southeast Greensboro, specifically at 306 Florida Street. The course has so much history, we know we can't do it justice in one post. The recently painted mural captures so much of the history of the course.  It is a must-see to learn civil rights history in Greensboro. This 104-acre course opened in 1941. The 9-hole course was built by Perry Maxwell at a time when only whites could play there.  On December 7, 1955, five years before the Sit-In by the Greensboro Four, six black men teed-up at the course.  These six men were charged with trespassing and spent 15 days in jail. Their act of civil disobedience helped pave the way for integration in the 1960's. The mural and an historic marker honor the men. Greensboro condemned the course and did not open it for seven years.*

Dr. George Simkins Jr. was a local dentist who was instrumental in getting the course integrated and for advancing the causes of social justice and civil rights in Greensboro (and beyond).  In 2018, "Our State Magazine" published a wonderful article about the Gillespie Golf Course and the Greensboro Six (see HERE). The above photo doesn't begin to do the mural justice. Close up, the colors are so vibrant. The mural also lists the name of the Greensboro Six: Dr. George Simkins Jr., Phillip Cooke, Joseph Student, Samuel Murray, Elijah Herring, and Leon Wolfe- the sepia figures on the right side of the mural. Vincent Ballentine of Brooklyn created the mural. It was commissioned by Wyndham Rewards. See the QR code with your iPhone camera to learn even more. about the mural, the history and the upcoming documentary.

 

*reference and more information HERE.

Along Elm Street

We absolutely love street scenes of downtown Greensboro and this view of the 100 block of South Elm Street puts us in such a great mood. As you can tell by the clothing, weather has been warming in Greensboro. Nights are cold and afternoons are warm. Winter coats at 6:30 a.m. and short sleeves in the p.m. The above photo was taken in front of the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. An older couple is reading information in the center window as a couple of younger people were walking along enjoying each other's company. We love the way the "worth" part of Woolworth appears in the photo. Yes, a visit here is well WORTH your time. Yes, we cropped the photo just a bit and brightens the exposure, but nothing was photoshopped in or out. The striped awning on this historic, 1929 building and the newer, retro light post really frame the scene.

If you are looking for something to do this weekend, consider heading downtown; however, it is also the weekend of the reenactment of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. See here for our photo of reenactment that dates back to 2010. So, you can have a 21st century experience along Elm Street and an 18th century experience in Greensboro Country Park. It is so educational to see people wearing clothing from 243 years ago and watching reenactors cooking food that would have been eating at that time. Regardless of what you end up doing, live the weekend to the fullest.

Happy Friday!

Justice Henry Frye and Shirley Frye Statue in Center City

This past Tuesday, February 20th, a statue was unveiled in Center City Park in honor of Justice Henry E. Frye and Shirley T. Frye. This inspiring Greensboro couple attended the event with their family, Governor Roy Cooper, Mayor Nancy Vaughn, and other prominent Greensboro citizens. It is so appropriate that both appear on the statue together as they are a team, united in their efforts to serve community and to live meaningful lives. Henry Frye has achieved many firsts in his life, Among them, he was the first African-American chief justice in North Carolina; the first elected to the North Carolina General Assembly; and the first to graduate from the UNC School of Law.  Both graduated from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 1953. He and Mrs. Frye have both been involved in a number of civic causes throughout their lives.

The statue was funded by the Bryan Foundation and created by artist/sculptor Maria Kirby Smith. We were told she had the Fryes model several outfits before their settling on the ones in the sculpture above. On Mrs. Frye's left shoulder is a butterfly pin, adding a touch of her personal flair to the piece. We learned that Chief Justice Frye has his own personal style. He can articulately summarize a meeting and do so in rhyme. While we were admiring the statue, the above, unidentified couple came to see it. We love the way their holding hands echoes the Fryes' gesture. Truly, the Fryes are a team.

Happy Saturday!

Social Justice Presentation at Hairston Auditorium

Yesterday at 10:00 am, people gathered to celebrate the legacy of four North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T) students and the role they played in the civil rights movement. This was the 64th anniversary of the Sit-Ins that first took place on February 1, 1960. At 10:00 am, there was a service and wreath laying ceremony in front of the February One Statue. After, high school students were invited to attend a social justice presentation by a panel of five very accomplished NC A&T students who answered questions about what they were doing to bring about change and gave high school students advice on what they could do to be actively engaged. The NC A&T students also talked about the opportunities at NC A&T and what a great school it is. The high school students were respectful and engaged, likely impressed that some of the university students were just a few years older than they are. The young man on the left has already appeared on Good Morning America and other national shows talking about social justice and making a difference. The student in the middle is just 19 years old and graduating this spring. The man on the left is an articulate freshman. Indeed, the above four students were role models for the high school students.

If we had one with for schools, it would be to offer more field trips. They are so hard to arrange these days, between the bus driver shortage, needed funding, and the pressure to cover core curriculum. Yesterday's field trip was impactful to the high school students who were able to attend, not only for the opportunity to participate in the February One ceremony and the social justice talk, but also to just spend time together making memories. After the presentation, students walked from the university campus to downtown Greensboro to the International Civil Rights Museum and Center. It was a cool, but sunny day and memories were made. 

Happy Friday!

February One- Black History Month

And so we begin Black History Month, a month of people learning about events that propelled the Civil Rights Movement and Black history in general. February One is a big day, it is also the day that the Greensboro Four marched from the campus of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University  (NC A&T) to the F.W. Woolworth Building at 134 South Elm Street. The above monument, by Greensboro artist and sculptor, James Barnhill, was installed on the campus of NC A&T in 2002. It features the Greensboro Four: David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair, Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), and Joseph McNeil.

Today, many people will be visiting NC A&T campus to participate in a special ceremony for the events of February 1, 1960. It is important to remember the past and to work in the moment to lead society in the direction of equity. There is a PBS documentary about February One. It would be in all of our best interests to watch the documentary. 

Happy Thursday! Happy February!

North Carolina A&T University Preparing for Black History Month

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is preparing for Black History Month starting with the February One Celebration. The exhibit has been installed in the H.C. Taylor Art Gallery, located in the old administration building, just behind the February One Monument. This exhibit is not to be missed. Mia and Norris McAdoo have loaned the gallery over 650 artifacts that provide insight into the lives and experiences of African Americans from the era of enslavement to present day.

The above photo is of a slave transport collar. Other items include a playbill from the Broadway play of "A Raisin in the Sun," copies of "Negro Digest" from the 1940s, and a Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee screen print from 1964. Many people collect ephemera and other items from history. The McAdoos have assembled an invaluable museum. The collection ranges from warm, nostalgic memories to more jarring ones like the above collar. In the background, you see a museum worker adjusting gallery lights so  the exhibit will be just perfect when it opens to the public. He encouraged us to also visit the exhibit on the second floor. Greensboro is a city with so much history related to the Civil Rights Movement. If you are local, we encourage you to use the month of February to learn as much as you can. If you are from elsewhere, please come visit.

Happy Wednesday!

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2024

 

Martin Luther King, Jr Day is a federal holiday. It was first observed in 1986, and since the year 2000 is officially observed in all 50 states. Some people say it as a day off, a three day weekend. Melvin "Skip" Alston, Chair of the GUILFORD COUNTY Board of Commissioners reminds us that, actually, it is a "day on", a day of service to community. Many people will be doing just that. From marching in the parade to volunteering at churches, community, and other local events. Today's MLK Day parade will be from 11:00 am- 12:00 noon downtown. The above photo is actually of Andrews High School marching at Greensboro's Holiday Parade on December 2nd. We're betting Andrews High School will also be at the parade today.

The MLK Breakfast will be at 7:30 am at the Khoury Convention Center. This year's theme is "Inspired to Dream." On Saturday, UNCG offered a program that introduced students to aspects of the local Greensboro community where they can serve, honoring Dr. King's legacy. On January 24th,  North Carolina A&T University, UNCG, Greensboro College, Guilford College, and Guilford Technical Community College, will collaborate on a birthday celebration (more information HERE). Greensboro has a legacy of leadership in the Civil Rights Movement that continues. We hope you are in a position to serve, to learn more about what has been done, and where work is still needed on the Civil Rights journey.

Happy Juneteenth 2023

Happy Juneteenth. It officially became a holiday in 2021. June 19, 1865 was the day that over a quarter of a million enslaved black people in Texas were freed by executive order. Until that date, there were Americans who were not free. To celebrate, Greensboro has had several events already and the festivities will continue today. As examples, there will be a Juneteenth celebration in Barber Park, a celebration at Sternberger Center at 712 Summit Avenue, and a SOULebration at the Piedmont Triad Farmers Market at 2914 Sandy Ridge Road. Today, The International Civil Rights Museum on Elm Street (photographed above) will offer genealogy research as well as a screening of the film, "The Autobiography of Jane Pittman." See here to learn more.

We hope you find some way to celebrate today and that you find a way to make the holiday even more meaningful and that you enjoy your three day weekend.

Happy Monday!

History by the Cup

Today's post is of a sculpture that is part of the "History by the Cup" collection. In 2008, eight bronze cups were placed around the city, They commemorate the historic lunch-counter sit-ins that began with the request for a cup of coffee. The above cup is placed in front of the Cultural Arts Center, near the outdoor seating of Café Europa. It is called, "In the Face of Strange Fruit," by the artist Derrick Monk. There is a quote on a plaque below it, by Antoine De Saint-Exupery, "He who is different from me does not impoverish me- he enriches me." That is a nice quote to keep handy and to live by. 

Next time you are walking around downtown, or if you are downtown for the North Carolina Folk Festival next weekend, you will likely be near the cups. It can be fun to try to find there. Here is a map to help you if you want a self-guided tour. On the day we first noticed this cup, we were in front of the Cultural Arts Center on Davie Street listening to the Triad Ukulele Club. If you like ukulele music or want to learn to play, learn more about the group here. Exploring our community is so special. From listening to music on a First Friday, we learned about the ukulele club and took time to focus on one of the sculptures we had not stopped to look at before. "History by the Cup" reminds us of the power of one, and the fact that we all have the potential to enrich each other's lives.

Happy Saturday! 

February 1st Place

Today's photo is of February 1st Place, located between Market and Washington Streets at Elm Street. It is a short and narrow street that carries a lot of history for our community. The street commemorates the Greensboro Sit-Ins when four African-American NCA&T students engaged in a sit-in at the F.W. Woolworth lunch counter. The Woolworth building, built in 1939, is part of the historic district in downtown Greensboro and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was save from demolition in 1993, estored, and plays a key role in the history of Civil Rights and social justice in Greensboro.

To the right, you can see one of the beautiful flower baskets maintained throughout downtown Greensboro. You can also see a Rolex Clock that stands in a metal case half way down February 1st Place. It harkens back to the days before cell phones and digital technology, when many people depended on analog clocks strategically set around  town. This one is well maintained and keeps accurate time. The metal casing says "Electric Time, Medfield, Mass. It is hard to believe that in less than 100 years, street clocks and downtown variety stores became obsolete. It will be interesting to monitor what future decades bring.

Swift Street AME Zion Church

Since we featured Juneteenth yesterday, let's visit an African American church today, Swift Street AME Zion Church. It is, indeed, located on Swift Street, between Wendover Avenue and West Market Street, near the Terra Cotta Heritage Museum. This is a very active church, committed to God and Jesus and to issues related to social justice as well. They have Sunday school and worship on Sunday and Bible study on Wednesday. The pastor is Rev. Joshua Holmes. The church is so beautiful and look at those beautiful stained glass windows!

The AME Zion denomination was formed in 1821 in New York City. The denomination adheres to Wesleyan-Arminian theology and  was established due to overt discrimination and a need for African-Americans to have a place to worship, have autonomy, and fought hard to be able to not have to have white ministers. The church was largely confined to the north until after the Civil War. *. We wish Swift Street had more church history available through the Internet. However, we're betting those who attend know who the keepers of the church history are. On the day we drove by, there were neighbors out. It is one of those churches that has a community surrounding it that cares about it very much. We hope they had a good Juneteenth and that they are around for years to come.

* read more and reference, here.

Dr. George C. Simkins, Jr.

 

Dr. Simkins (1924-2001) was a Greensboro native. By profession, he was a dentist, but he also dedicated his life to the Civil Rights Movement and social justice. For 25 years, Dr. Simkins led the Greensboro branch of the NAACP.  He worked tirelessly for desegregation of Greensboro.  This statue is located on the northwest corner of governmental plaza. The sculptor is Maria J. Kirby Smith. The statue was made possible by the Guilford County Board of Commissioners and the Joseph M. Bryan Foundation.

The day we visited, a couple of young educators were taking selfie’s here at this statue. How encouraging that they were out interacting with a piece of art about an impactful Greensboro social justice figure. If you head down to visit Governmental Plaza now, you will see the plantings on the plaza in full bloom!

The Historic Magnolia House

The Magnolia House is a Green Book site, meaning it was a destination for African-American travelers during the segregated Jim Crow era. Magnolia House, located at 442 Gorrell Street, was built in 1890. Between 1955- 1961, several prominent African Americans spent the night here, often en route to important engagements north and south of Greensboro. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places and was originally known as the Daniel D. Debutts House. Some of the people who stayed here were James Brown Ray Charles, Ike and Tina Turner, and Jackie Robinson.*

The Magnolia House has so many community initiatives. Also, they offer retreats and corporate events, family events like birthdays and weddings. During the pandemic, they have found very creative ways to have fundraising events, such as music sessions on the porch. They offer shoebox lunches starting at $13. The Magnolia House Foundation hopes to restore and maintain the property as an historic hotel. The above photo of the east side of the property gives you an idea of the size of the house. Just look at that inviting porch. Drive by, if you get a chance this weekend. If you don't, read more in the link below. 

*reference and more information HERE.

Sit In Art

Today's photo is the Church Street Parking Deck. In 2008, he entire stairwell was painted by the African American Atelier in their Summer Around the World Youth Program.  The artist instructor for the above project was Brittain Peck; the assistant was Delois Bynum; story development was by Rameshkathandi; and, the translator was Carlos J. Morales. The project got support from The City of Greensboro, the Greensboro Library Arts Commission, and UNCGreensboro. The stairwell reads like a bilingual cartoon, but with a serious message. The little slice shown today is the Greensboro Four who started the Sit-Ins at the Woolworth lunch counter in 1960.

While outdoor murals have really trended in Greensboro over the last few years, this one can go unnoticed as it is indoors in a stairwell. On the other hand, it is protected from the elements and should last for a very long time. As co-founder of the Atelier, Representative Alma Adams points out*, the Atelier was established so that African American art can be showcased every day and every month of the year, not just in February. The youth group has continued the tradition of memorable art projects since it was established in 1992. Let's hope they do their fine projects for a very long time.

*reference and more information in the News & Record article here.

Greensboro Sit Ins and African American History Month

February 1st, 1960, sixty one years ago, is the day the Sit-In Movement began at the lunch counter at Woolworth on South Elm Street in downtown Greensboro. Initially, four men  started these Sit Ins by refusing to get up from the lunch counter until they were served a cup of coffee. They are featured above.  David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Jabreel Khazan, Joseph McNeil were freshmen at North Carolina A&T during the Sit-Ins. To remember the movement, in 2002, this sculpture, by Jim Barnhill,  was erected on the campus of NC A&T, in front of the Dudley Memorial Building. Barnhill is an art professor at NC A & T. People not from Greensboro don't always realize the extent of this city's involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. Having so many institutions of higher education in Greensboro, including two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), NC A&T and Bennett College, contribute to this involvement. 

Related to civil rights and social justice, so much has happened nationally and in Greensboro just since February One last year. There have been heinous and offensive acts committed against people of color, and protests and reactions. Lets all spend the year doing what we can to make sure everyone is treated fairly and with dignity. Let's check back on February One, 2022,  and assess how the year has been. As we open African American History month, let us learn more about the above four men, and also people of color in the Greensboro community today who are making a difference. Happy Monday! Happy February One!

The Greensboro Greenway: Southeast Portion

Part of the southeast portion of the Greensboro Greenway passes along Bragg Street at Martin Luther King Drive. The above photo shows the asphalt trail that comes up the hill from Morrow Boulevard and crosses over East Gate City Boulevard. The downtown portion of the greenway is a 4-mile, multi-use paved trail. It is the only greenway encircling a city in North Carolina. This beautiful community resource actually connects to 100 miles of existing trails that will only continue to grow. Mr. Mapp's MLK bust (featured Monday) is found along this section of the Greenway. Two additional works of art are here. In the foreground is William Byer's "Reflection Rock" installed in 2019. In the background is the Monument to Dignity and Respect by Vandorn Hinnant. The arm, with a finger pointing to the sky, reads, "Dignity, United We Stand" a message that was heard in the Presidential Inauguration yesterday. Another quote on the Hinnant sculpture reads,  "I've always felt that the place where I live is the place I should improve" Dorothy Brown, Community Leader.

The greenway is a giant effort to unite and improve our community. Here is a detailed map, should you be curious, or even better, interested in exploring the greenway yourself. As you look at the map, you will learn that it was envisioned and inspired by the Greensboro Bicentennial Commission, to be the signature project commemorating Greensboro's 2008 Bicentennial. In 1891, Greensboro became known as the Gate City because so many trains traveled through Greensboro. It was the transportation gateway to the west and south. We're thinking that as of 2021,  Greensboro is on its way to earning another nickname, the Trail City!

Remembering J. Kenneth Lee

The above mural features a Greensboro civil rights great, J. Kenneth Lee. In her News & Record article in 2018, Nancy McLoughlin wrote a befitting title to remember this great man, "Remembering a quiet 'giant' Fighter of racism. Mentor to many. J. Kenneth Lee 'stood at the front of the line all the time'."* Mr. Lee was a civil rights attorney who came to Greensboro to attend North Carolina A&T State University. Mr. Lee went on to obtain a law degree from UNC Chapel Hill and returned to Greensboro to practice and to play an integral part in the Civil Rights Movement. Mr. Lee worked hard to dismantle Jim Crow laws, to help desegregate public schools, and to open doors for African Americans that had previously been closed . As an example, Mr. Lee founded a federally chartered savings and loan, American Federal in Greensboro, making it possible for African Americans to secure loans. As mentioned yesterday, Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. stayed at Mr. Lee's house on Broad Street. While Mr. Lee called Greensboro home for most of his 94 years, he grew up in Hamlet, NC (Richmond County) and remembered fondly his time with his grandmother, who had been a slave. Here is an interesting entry on J. Kenneth Lee in the Carolina Law Oral History Project.

The above mural of Mr. Lee is painted on the Studio 503 building just beside the Point Dance Studio. The mural is located on Washington Street- at the corner of Pastor Anderson Way. Mural artist "Aches", who hails from Ireland, painted the portrait-mural in 2018. Here is an article showing "Aches" during the painting process. It is fascinating how quickly and efficiently these mural artists work!

* Reference and more information in Nancy McLoughlin's article.

Vote!

All is quiet on the corner of Lewis Street and the 600 block of South Elm Street. At this storefront awaits a new business, the owners have brown paper over the windows and a message to VOTE! It will be interesting to see the election results for Guilford County. Our county has voted Democratic in the last four presidential elections and Republican in 2000- when George W. Bush was running. 

Hopefully, you have either already voted, or you intend to vote today. There is no school today. If you are home with children, today is a good day to teach them about civic rights and responsibilities. Have a great Tuesday. Regardless of election results, it will be nice to see the campaign signs disappear from the lawns of Greensboro. If you are working at the polls, thank you for your service!

We Stand Together

Yesterday was Day 6 of protests and the first night of a curfew in Greensboro. By 8:00, people were supposed to be off of the streets. According to news media, the night was relatively calm and protesters mostly disbanded at curfew time.  Notice the messages written above, on the boarded up storefront on south Elm Street, "We Stand Together. BLM Forever. Unity. Together We Stand. Together We Change." Walking from one end of Elm Street to the other, and reading the messages on all of the plywood gives us an idea of how people feel and what they want. The messages are largely positive.

To be sure, we at Greensboro Daily Photo don't have the answers. However, people in Greensboro are feeling marginalized, wronged, and angry, and the situation cannot be ignored. From parents, to daycare workers, to teachers, to politicians, to religious communities, and beyond, lots of conversations need to take place. May we find a way for all to have their voice heard. 

The Movement Continues

Today is February 1, it is the 60th anniversary of the Sit-in That took place at the above Woolworths department store on Elm Street in Greensboro. Mini special that took place at the above Woolworths department store on Elm Street in Greensboro. Every year, special events are held to commemorate this important point in the civil rights movement. 

A really important event will be held this evening. It is the Annual Fundraising Gala and will take place in the Special Events Center at the Greensboro Coliseum. The event will include many notable guests who have contributed significantly to enhancing civil rights in the United States. Award winners include President Barack Obama, Reverend Al Sharpton, Mr. Danny Glover, Ms. Clayola Brown, Reverend Dr. Cardes H Brown Junior, Dr. Linda B. Brown, And Mrs. Emma Washington. To be sure, it will be a night to remember.

International Civil Rights Museum

The International Civil Rights Museum, located at 134 South Elm Street, was founded in 2010.   The first Woolworth opened in 1879, and the Greensboro Woolworth in 1929. The Greensboro sit-ins took place there in 1960, when four NCA&T college students weren't going to take no for an answer with respect to their being able to order from the lunch counter. 

In the above photo, the museum looks quiet and empty. However, during special events, the building is packed. It gets over 70,000 visitors annually. Greensboro played an important role in the Civil Rights movement in the 1960's. It is important that this history be remembered. If you have never visited the museum, you owe it to yourself to do so.  Happy Monday!

On the Corner of Tate & Gate City

This building, at the corner of South Tate Street and West Gate City Boulevard, has housed many businesses over the years. It is located in a part of town that is changing drastically. With UNCG's expansion across Gate City to the edge of the Glenwood neighborhood, college students are seen regularly, walking to and from the two parts of campus.

It is amazing when walking, what you see that you might otherwise miss. For example, on foot, one notices the set of stairs behind the building. Why were they put there? Was it to load and unload inventory or to make it easier to get from Point A to Point B? Also, on foot, the poster on the side of the building invites curiosity: "Civil Rights: Forward and Upward." Did the owner of the building put it there or the last person renting? Was there an event related to Civil Rights in the building?

The photo has a "then/decades later" photo of the Greensboro Four, the four North Carolina A&T students who were instrumental in the Sit In Movement with their refusal to give up their seats at the lunch counter at Woolworth in 1960. While the photo was taken recently, being published in black and white makes it look like could have been taken decades ago. Wonder what the young men walking on the other side of the street noticed the stairs... the poster...

Brian Jones at Scuppernong Books

On Saturday, Brian Jones spoke at Scuppernong books. He is the Associate Director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in New York. He spoke about the radical legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.  About one of the best things someone can do to understand fully what was happening at the time while Dr. King was alive is to listen to his speeches and to read his 1967 book, "Where Do We Go From Here?".

The talk was sponsored by the Greensboro Socialists and approximately 40 people were in attendance. Regardless of political beliefs, it was so informative.  Greensboro has many interesting guest speakers, through the Bryan series, the presentations at all the local universities, and the speakers of special interest groups and organizations. Check in with Scuppernong often as they are always hosting informative events.

The NC A&T Four Monument

On any given day, especially in February, it is common to see people stopping by this iconic statue on the campus of North Carolina A & T University. Dedicated in 2002, it features Jibreel Khazan (Ezell Blair, Jr.), Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil, and David Richmond. Sculptor James Barnhill decided to sculpt the four men marching as they left the February 1, 1960 sit in, as opposed to their sitting. He said he felt like this position had a stronger visual impact.*

Dressed for church, it was with great pride and joy that this family posed in front of  the statue on a quiet Sunday morning on campus. What a wonderful way to help children remember history and learn about a monumental event that impacted our country. 

* reference and more information, here.

African American History Month

February is African American History Month and Greensboro has played a significant role in the civil rights movement. On February 1, 1960, four NCA&T students sat down at the Woolworth lunch counter, a place that only waited on white customers. Greensboro is home to two historically black colleges and universities, NCA&T and Bennet College.

The above photo features the bronze statue of Reverend, Doctor, Martin Luther King, initially sculpted in cement by Wilbur Lee Mapp and cast in bronze in collaboration of Mr. Mapp and Jim Gallucci. The bust is now permanently installed on MLK Drive. If you look closer to the right of it, you can see the water tower of Bennett College. There is talk that High Point University may provide a financial gift so that Bennett College can remain open. The Greensboro/High Point community is known to work together for the common good. Have a great Saturday!

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Ole Asheboro

Yesterday was a busy day at the corner of MLK, Jr. Boulevard and Bragg Street, in the heart of  Ole Asheboro. The above photo features the ribbon cutting ceremony for Monday's opening of another segment of the Downtown Greenway. This part of the greenway is very special to the history of Greensboro, not  only for its significance to the revitalization efforts in Ole Asheboro, but also for the installation of three pieces of very meaningful art.

The family of Wilbur Lee Map was on hand for the installation of Mapp's 1994 bust of Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. In close collaboration with Mr. Mapp, local sculptor Jim Gallucci took Mapp's cement bust of Dr. King and recast it in bronze. Mr. Mapp lived to see the bronze bust completed, but not installed. Also installed on the southside of the greenway were two steel sculptures by Vandorn Hinnant, a Greensboro artist now living in Durham. It is so nice to see citizens, artists, and politicians coming together to celebrate Greensboro. The well-attended event was just perfect for MLK holiday.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Shabbat Service at Temple Emanuel

Last night was the 23rd annual Shabbat Service at Temple Emanuel, honoring the memory of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Also addressed was the issue of racism in society today. Rabbi Guttman went "off script" to address the topic, relating his message to recent events in the news.  The keynote speaker, UNCG's Chancellor Gilliam spoke about racism, the power of storytelling, and the need for social change.

Throughout the very special two hour service, Jewish prayers and rituals were combined with music- contempory, traditional, and religious. The service reminded the congregation and guests that there is much work to be done to have a more equal and just society. It was a memorable moment hearing Hank Brodt, a survivor of five Nazi concentration camps sang V'shamru. Another special moment came when everyone in the room sang a song that combined "America the Beautiful" and "We Shall Overcome." Politicians and religious leaders in the audience were recognized; quite a testimony to the diversity in the audience. At the end of the service, all religious leaders in attendance went up front to show solidarity and a common vision. It was a very memorable service, where all felt embraced and welcome.

Time for Reflection

This bench is placed in front of a porch full of petunias at a home on Walker Avenue, just off Tate Street. It is so inviting and tempting to use for a respite, a time for silent meditation. At least one day a week, we all need to take pause, reflect on the week behind and the week ahead of us. Today would be a good day for to do so.

There are many serious situations in the world right now, one of which is just up the road in Charlottesville, Virginia. Tonight in Greensboro, there will be a candlelight vigil for unity and social justice at Governmental Plaza on Greene Street from 7-8pm. As a community, Greensboro made great headway toward social justice in the 1960's, during the the Civil Rights Movement. Let's hope and pray we can keep race-based violence out of our community.

And, if we see someone on the above bench, we just may ask for permission to join them, regardless of how alike or how different we may be...

D is for Downtown on February First

February 1st is a big day for Greensboro. February 1, 1960 at 4:30 p.m., four African-American college students attending NC A&T University, sat down at the above Woolworth Store at the "whites-only" lunch counter insisting on being served a cup of coffee. The students remained at the lunch counter, a form of non-violent protest, until the store closed that evening. These sit-ins continued and grew in participation, building momentum for the Civil Rights Movement.

The above photo was taken on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday at "ground zero" for the Greensboro Sit-Ins. These children were downtown with their father spending the day learning about Civil Rights and skipping along West February 1.  The building is no longer Woolworth Co, but the International Civil Rights Center and Museum (IRCM).

The February theme for the City Daily Photo Community is "Loving Life". We will share this photo with the CDP Community because these three, happy children exemplify "Loving Life." Today also happens to be ABC Wednesday and "D" is for "Downtown", a fabulous place for teaching children about our city and its history. If you are interested in helping to support Greensboro civil rights history, the ICRM is holding a fundraiser today to help fund field trips for children 336-274-9199. For the price of a designer cup of coffee, you can help a child learn about civil rights.

Triad North Carolina Women's March

Yesterday's marches and rallies in support of women's, human, and civil rights touched the world. The Greensboro crowds were also quite large for our local event- the Triad North Carolina Women's March. The above photo features Rabbi Andy Koren and Rabbi Fred Guttman. Both started their day at Temple Emanuel for the Sabbath service and then, with congregants, headed a few blocks away to the downtown march. People gathered at Governmental Plaza and marched peacefully to LeBauer Park. The expressions on the faces of both rabbis are representative of the tone of the day. These two men work tirelessly for human and civil rights within and beyond the Jewish community. Indeed, Greensboro is greater for their efforts.

YMCA Bus on South Elm Street

It was a beautiful day in downtown Greensboro today. Being in the mid-50's, the weather was perfect for all of the events related to civil rights and community service, including the parade in celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The above Thomas-built bus was parked in front of the International Civil Rights Museum while a group of students was touring the museum. They sounded so energized about their visit. While the museum has struggled financially, when you hear adolescents excited about a field trip and what they are learning, especially when it is historically significant, you know the experience is an important one.

This bus, from one of the YMCA's from the northwest North Carolina region, has a really catchy slogan on the side, "on the road to success." It is beautifully painted and the fact that it was made right down the road in High Point makes it even more special. While the streets look empty in this photo, many of the downtown venues, including the civil rights museum, were busy. Happy Tuesday, today, dear readers. For those who were lucky enough to have yesterday off, it will feel like Monday.

X is for Malcom X

Did you know that Malcom X Liberation University (MXLU)  was located in Greensboro from 1970,  until it closed in 1973? It was located on the above lot at 708 Asheboro Street, now known as Martin Luther King Drive. The institution ascribed to the Malcom X's separatist ideologies and belief in racial equality through any necessary means. The curriculum included academic courses, a two-month stay in Africa, technical courses, internships, physical education, courses in nation-building, and a curriculum that centered on Black Power and Pan-Africanism. The three-year program was very demanding and students only got a weekend off in the case of an emergency.*

The program, located on the above lot, closed in 1973. We aren't sure when the building was torn down, but, all that remains is this open field. We would have liked to have seen MXLU at it's peak, back when the school tried to be as self sufficient as possible and even had a community garden. Greensboro is known for its involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, part of the city's appeal when Malcom X Liberation University relocated here from Durham.

 Today is ABC Wednesday and for our A-Z Urban Finds Series, "X" lead us to Malcom X and MCLU.

*If you are interested in more details, the wiki entry is a good place to start. See, here.

More than Just a Cup of Coffee

(Some of you saw this post yesterday. We are sorry; it posted a day early)....

We love coffee, and public art, and apparently this little robin does, too. This sculpture is located on Greene Street near the Courthouse. There are eight of these sculptures and seven are within easy walking distance of each other. The above cup is listed on the map as #1 (see here). The artist is Rodney Bennett and the inscription reads: “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear.“ ~ Ambrose Redmoon. Bennett said he wanted to tell the story of the Greensboro Four, but also the Civil Rights Movement as a whole and equality for all people. That is a powerful message and as relevant today as when it was installed six years ago on the 50th anniversary of Greensboro's Sit-In Movement (Feb. 1, 1060).

If you are out looking for something to do this weekend, you could consider taking the walking tour to see these cups. If you can't go see these great statues, tweet out the suggestion, on behalf of the above robin... corny joke, we know! If you do go, consider taking a damp, soft cloth to erase the evidence that Mr. Robin was there!

Music at the International Civil Rights Museum

Saturday at 1:00 pm. many people in Greensboro (and elsewhere) were out playing music and, in some places, singing along in protest to North Carolina's HB2. The original idea of playing music as a form of protest was sparked by Steve Haines who teaches music at UNCG. Another group, organized by Mark Dillon, also a music instructor at UNCG, sang and played in front of Scuppernong Books on Elm Street. Since the group in front of Suppernong Books, the one at Gibbs Hundred, and the one at Mack and Mack were featured in the News and Record yesterday, we thought we would share the group in front of the International Civil Rights Museum, Greensboro's "ground zero" for peaceful protests. What appeared to be a a high school or college group was playing jazz music. To the delight of the instrumentalists and onlookers, the woman on the right came out of the museum and began singing in her pitch-perfect voice.  What a treat. Greensboro has so many talented musicians and that above group was no exception. The above group was protesting on the very spot where the Greensboro Sit Ins took place in 1960.

In spite of the rain, many people came out to have their voice be heard. Indeed, the event was peaceful, and impactful. 

D is for Dads; Urban Dads

The above photo is a scene from inside the International Civil Rights Museum. It shows the museum at its best, open to the public and serving as a gathering place. Behind the photographer was a table set up for voter registration. In front of the camera is a scene of families gathered after the Dr. MLK, Jr. Parade. On the wall, the sepia photo is of the "Greensboro Four" (from left to right). David Richmond, Franklin McCain, Ezell Blair, Jr., and Joseph McNeil.  They are the four men who sat at the Woolworth's lunch counter, in this very building, and ordered a cup of coffee. In defiance of segregation and in support of civil rights, these four were part of the impetus to change laws related to different treatment based on race.

The above information, the Sit-In story, is known by many, especially locally. What is not as well known is the fact that the "Greensboro Four" have fourteen children. Imagine what great dads and role models they have been. Imagine growing up knowing you have your own dad to thank for changing society for the better. Notice the dads on the couches. Imagine how special their children will feel when they get older, knowing that their dad spent the day with them and brought them out to participate in the MLK Day activities. Twenty-first century urban dads are like that- involved. Frequently, they are seen manning the strollers.

Today is ABC Wednesday and D is for Dads, Urban Dads. (See the other A-Z Urban Finds, here).

Life's Journeys

The above feet are part of a statue in the back of the Weatherspoon Art Museum in Greensboro. They belong to Urban Francis, sculpted in bronze by Judith Shea and representing St. Francis of Assisi. In most religions, bare feet signify humility and service, traits that fit St. Francis. 

Life is full of all kinds of journeys: Spiritual/physical; self-imposed and planned/unforeseen; inspirational/burdensome. As we enter African American history month, let us remember the journeys made by so many people in Greensboro. The Underground Railroad, the network of secret routes to help enslaved people find their way to freedom, began in a wooded area that is now part of Guilford College.* Local residents and devout Quakers, Levi and Vestal Coffin, were very involved in the Underground Railroad. Also, tomorrow, February 1st, is the day in 1960, when the Greensboro Four sat at the Woolworth Lunch Counter in Greensboro and refused to get up- even though the lunch counter was segregated. The bare feet remind us of the protesters in the 1960's who walked and marched and stood up for their civil rights.

If Sunday is a day of rest for you, take a little time and ponder the things you would be willing to stand up and to march for... even if it meant doing so barefoot. If you want to see his face, look, here and a full-length view, here.

*reference.

FINALLY, a photo we can share on Shadow Shot Sunday!

Dr. MLK, Jr. Statue

This statue of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is waiting to the public from just inside the International Civil Rights Museum on South Elm Street in Greensboro. Tonight is a very important day for the museum. They are presenting the "Ignite4Change" Gala, which will be held at the NC A&T University Alumni-Foundation Event Center. Ticket prices range from $125 for an individual ticket to the $50,000, A Changed World, ticket. A ticket at the highest levels allows you to sit at the table with either Ezell Blair, Jr. or Joseph McNeil, two of the four original members of the sit-in group. The money goes to a good cause and the experience would be extremely memorable. Even if you only have an individual ticket, you will not regret attending.

Today is Weekend Reflections and we are sharing this post with our friends at that meme. We love the fact that there are people inside the museum and that they can be seen through the window. The museum has had a lot of traffic lately. Let's hope it stays that way!