Explore NYC’s Black History

African Americans have been an integral part of NYC since it’s founding.  While the first Black residents were bought to the city against their will, African Americans eventually streamed into NYC from all over the country (and the world), seeking a better life.  February is Black History Month.  Here are some ways to celebrate the enormous contributions NYC’s Black citizens have made to the city’s character and culture.

Harlem Brownstones Photo: Author

Harlem -

Tour the famed historic African American neighborhood with Harlem Heritage Tours.  Their schedule includes a Walking Tour and Gospel Concert, Harlem Renaissance Tour, and a Taste of Harlem Tour.  See their website for schedule and information. Big Onion Walking Tours also offers a Historic Harlem Tour, lead by a historian.

Schomberg Center for Research in Black Culture – this branch of the NY Public Library is one of the world’s leading research facilities for African experiences and cultures.  In addition to the research library and exhibits, the Center hosts events including discussions, theater and musical performances, and a film series.  Visit their website for information, or check their program schedule.

Studio Museum in Harlem– Located on historic 125th St., this museum showcases works by artists of American descent.  Besides its impressive permanent collection, the museum hosts exhibitions and programs.  The museum is open Thursday – Sunday (Sundays free). Check their website for hours and schedule.

Apollo Theater – the landmark theater that launched the careers of Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, James Brown, Jimmy Hendrix, and the Jackson Five to name just a few.  In addition to concerts, the raucous Amateur Nights are back.  Theater tours are also available.  The theater will host a free Open House Weekend Feb 4th & 5th, including performances, workshops, and a Dance Party.  See their website for information.

Rest of NYC –

African Burial Ground – this Lower Manhattan site is the resting place of more than 400 free and enslaved Africans who were buried during the 17th & 18th Century.  Discovered in 1991 during construction of an office tower, a National Monument and Visitors Center now stands at the site.  See the website for information.

The Brooklyn Museum currently features the exhibit Question Bridge: Black Males, a video installation featuring a diverse selection of Black Men musing on questions of family, community, past, present, and future for Black Men in American society.  See the website for information.

The Gershwins’ Porgy & Bess – written by Dubose Heyward and the Gershwins (all of whom were white), this musical theater classic tells of tale of an impoverished Black community in South Carolina.  The incredible score is performed by a stellar African American cast lead by Audra McDonald, Norm Lewis, and David Alan Grier.  For tickets and information, see the show’s website. Check Broadway Box for discount ticket codes.

Weeksville Heritage Center – Weeksville was a village of free African Americans founded just after the abolition of slavery in New York.  The community thrived during the 19th and early 20th centuries, and included schools, churches, newspapers, and benevolent associations.  It also participated in anti-slavery activities.  Three original Road Houses (1840s-1880s) feature exhibits, and during warmer weather the Center offers a roster of performances and cultural programs.  See their website for information and directions to the Brooklyn location.  Here’s an interesting video…

A great online resource for learning about NYC’s Black history is the MAPP website, a project by Columbia University that explores the community’s rich legacy.