The Home of Carter G. Woodson, the Man Behind Black History Month

[Troy]

This is a free share to the New York Times article.

 

By Anna Kodé

Anna Kodé reported from Carter G. Woodson’s office home in Washington.

• Published Feb. 1, 2024Updated Feb. 6, 2024

 

The origins of Black History Month can be traced back nearly a hundred years to an unassuming, three-story brick rowhouse in Washington.

 

In 1922, Carter G. Woodson, known as “the father of Black history,” bought the home at 1538 Ninth Street NW for $8,000. The home served as the headquarters for the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (which is now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, or A.S.A.L.H.). It was where he ran the Associated Publishers, the publishing house focused on African American culture and history at a time when many other publishers wouldn’t accept works on the topic. It’s where The Journal of Negro History and The Negro History Bulletin were based, and it’s where he initiated the first Negro History Week — the precursor to Black History Month — in 1926. Read the rest of the article.

 

[ProfD]

Once considered the Harlem of Washington DC, houses in that area are now selling for $750k or more. 

 

Of course, Black folks aren't benefitting from it.  Generational wealth usurped through gentrification.  

 

The National Park Service has designated Mr. Carter G. Woodson's former house as a historic landmark.