Black History has left an indelible imprint on the cultural fabric of New York City. From the Harlem Renaissance to the teachings of Malcolm X, New York City has been a beacon of black history and civil rights. Even though we’re not knee deep into 2015, we have already celebrated some amazing historical milestones. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King‘s historic march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, as well as the 5oth anniversary of Malcolm X’s assassination. In honor of Black History Month, we have complied a list of 5 places connected to Black History in Harlem.
1. Langston Hughes’ Harlem Brownstone
One of the most prominent figures during the Harlem Renaissance, acclaimed poet and author Langston Hughes resided in his Harlem brownstone, which is located on 20. East 127th Street in Harlem.
2. Minton’s Playhouse
Located on 206h West 118th Street in Harlem, this famous musical relic was founded in 1938 by Henry Milton, a talented saxophonist who become known as the first black delegate to the American Federation of Musicians. Back in its heyday, Minton’s Playhouse was a popular jazz club in the 1940s. Frequented by the likes of Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk, the jazz club and bar played a pivotal role in the development of modern jazz music. The jazz club is still a popular location among locals and juzz musicians today.
3. Sylvia’s Restaurant
Founded in 1962 by the late Sylvia Woods, this iconic restaurant has become known for its acclaimed servings of soul food. It has also become known for attracting celebrities such as Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, Susan Lucci and Spike Lee. In walking distance of the Apollo Theater, the restaurant has become a popular location for tourists and townspeople alike.
4. 369th Regiment Armory
The 369th Regiment Armory was built for the 369th Regiment. Also known as the Harlem Hellfighters, they were a military regiment unit revered for their courage, valiance and valor during World War I. The 369th Regiment Armory was the first military regiment unit to be comprised of solely African Americans during World War I.
5. The New York Amsterdam News Building
The New York Amsterdam News gained national prominence for publishing weekly articles devoted to New York City’s African American community. Some of its more notable articles centered around African American icons such as Malcolm X, Martin Luther King, Jr., Barack Obama and Maya Angelou. Between 1916 and 1938, much of the newspaper’s publication took place in a row house located on 2293 Seventh Avenue in Harlem. The house become a National Historic Landmark on May 11, 1976.
Read on for 10 Places to Honor Martin Luther King, Jr. in NYC and 5 Places to Mark Malcolm X.
