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Nashville Celebrates Black History Month: Honoring Civil Rights

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Historic buildings in Nashville associated with the Civil Rights Movement during Black History Month.

News Summary

As Nashville celebrates Black History Month, the city reflects on its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. Highlighting historic landmarks like the Kress, Woolworth, and McClellan buildings, Nashville commemorates the courageous acts of students who shaped a path toward equality. Engaging events such as the Nashville Conference on African-American History and Culture further honor this legacy, inviting community members to deepen their understanding of local civil rights history and culture.

Nashville Celebrates Black History Month: A Walk through Civil Rights Landmarks

Nashville isn’t just the home of great music and delicious hot chicken; it’s also a city steeped in the history of the Civil Rights Movement. As we dive into Black History Month, Nashville proudly reflects on its journey to equality, highlighting historic landmarks and hosting engaging events that commemorate this essential part of the city’s heritage.

Turning Tables: The Sit-Ins

Did you know that Nashville was the first major city to officially desegregate public lunch counters? It all began with the 1960 Nashville sit-ins, a crucial chapter in the Civil Rights Movement. A group of courageous students from Nashville’s historically Black colleges decided they’d had enough of segregation at lunch counters, leading to protests that would help reshape societal norms. Today, three key protest sites from those sit-ins still stand proud, ready to tell their stories: the Kress Building, Woolworth Building, and McClellan Building.

The Kress Building: A Glimpse of the Past

Nestled at 239 Rep. John Lewis Way N, the Kress Building was constructed in 1935 and originally part of the S.H. Kress & Co. chain. This striking building, known for its Art Deco design, features ornate detailing and large display windows that capture the eye and spark the imagination. During the 1960 sit-ins, it became a battleground for protests against segregation, with students firmly standing their ground. Today, the Kress Building has been lovingly transformed into Kress Lofts, merging modern residential and commercial spaces while preserving its historical essence.

The Woolworth Building: A Stage for Change

Across town stands the iconic Woolworth Building, built in the 1890s and joining the Woolworth department store chain in 1913. Its lunch counter was notorious for enforcing segregation. On February 13, 1960, the first large-scale organized sit-in took place here, with fearless activists like Diane Nash and John Lewis leading the charge. Today, it operates as the Woolworth Theatre, providing a vibrant venue for live performances, ensuring that the spirit of activism continues to resonate within its walls.

McClellan Building: When Protests Turned Violent

Don’t overlook the McClellan Building, which also contributed to the history of the Civil Rights Movement. Originally constructed in the 1890s and home to McClellan’s five-and-dime store in 1927, this site witnessed violence during the protests on February 27, 1960. Sadly, rather than arresting those who initiated the violence, authorities detained the demonstrators. But time has turned this building into a space for creativity, now known as Art Avenue Lofts, housing artist studios and apartments while showcasing its unique architectural features.

The Backbone of Nashville’s Movement

The students from local institutions like Fisk University, Tennessee State University, and American Baptist College played pivotal roles in Nashville’s Civil Rights Movement. Their combined determination forged paths toward greater equality and social justice.

Events to Honor Our Heroes

This February, Nashville has a full lineup of events to promote education and awareness. One significant gathering is the annual Nashville Conference on African-American History and Culture, taking place on February 14. This event will spotlight “African American Stories of Resilience,” presenting historical narratives from passionate historians, artists, and musicians, along with fellowship opportunities, including a delightful sit-down dinner.

If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of Nashville’s Civil Rights legacy, don’t miss visits to the Nashville Public Library’s Civil Rights Room or the National Museum of African American Music. These venues showcase informative exhibits that delve into the rich history of this pivotal movement.

Celebration and Exploration

For those excited to celebrate local culture, look out for Black Music Heritage Night on February 8, where the Nashville Predators will take part in honoring the city’s musical legacy.

Nashville is ripe with resources to explore its Civil Rights history. Consider joining expert-led tours, visiting significant landmarks, and marveling at relevant murals and historic buildings that tell the stories of resilience and triumph.

This Black History Month, take a step back and immerse yourself in Nashville’s rich legacy. Whether through its poignant landmarks, engaging events, or educational resources, there’s something for everyone to learn, appreciate, and celebrate in this magnificent city.

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Additional Resources

Nashville Celebrates Black History Month: Honoring Civil Rights

HERE Nashville
Author: HERE Nashville

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