The Way We Were :: Roxbury Black Wall Street 1900-1965

The Way We Were: Roxbury Black Wall Street 1900–1965 is a cultural and historical initiative honoring Roxbury’s rich legacy as a hub of Black entrepreneurship, resilience, and creativity. This project explores the dynamic period from 1900 to 1965 when Roxbury thrived as a center for Black-owned businesses, community organizing, and cultural development. Inspired by personal family ties and supported by Northeastern University’s archives, the project blends deep historical research with community engagement.

The Cultural Community Museum Conference (CCMC) will feature exhibitions, performances, and discussions that highlight the economic, social, and artistic impact of Roxbury’s Black Wall Street. Through oral histories, archival materials, and interactive displays, we aim to preserve and amplify the voices and stories that shaped this vibrant era.

Two key experiences are offered via Eventbrite:

• Researcher & Community Discussion Ticket: This ticket grants access to an in-depth session where attendees can engage with the research team, explore archival findings, and contribute to the collective memory of Roxbury.
• Performance Experience Ticket (1 PM): This immersive event brings history to life through art, performance, music, and visual storytelling—interpreting the historical research in dynamic and moving ways.

This project not only honors Roxbury’s past but also aims to inspire future generations through education, creativity, and pride. By connecting community members, artists, and scholars, The Way We Were creates a space where history informs hope and legacy fuels leadership.

Info: 1:00-2:30 Arts
- Elma Lewis, Allen Crite, and John Biggers
- Jimmy Sly Video and Tap dancer
- Video Fashion and Auto Video
- Malinda Love Song from Mark Mil play
- Movement and Jazz with Leslie Salmon Jones and Jeff W. Jones of AfroFlow Yoga
3:30-6:30 Automotive
- Auto Display
- Fashion Show
- Old School Performers
- Old School DJ Music Block Party.

Info: 1:00-2:30.
- Buying Housing Skit and Video
- Britany Kyle Papile, The Ultimate Entrepreneur
- Byron Rushing on Housing Video or Live
3:00-4:30 Places of Worship
- Churches and Places of Worship
- Singer Gospel
- Nation of Islam Drill
5:00-6:30 Health and Beauty
- How to Eat to Live the Book By Elijah Muhammad: One Meal A Day Skit
- Beauty Salons Skit Kitchen Salon (straightening hair demonstration)
- “Crowns” Play Solo by Lovely Hoffman

Info: 1:00-2:00 Education
- Bob Haden Excerpt Martha’s Vineyard Book. Youth presenter (Vineyard Video)
- Andrea Rosario-Gborie Excerpt: How I Survived Sera Leon War Family chapter- Youth
Presenter
- Places where education happens: ADCD, Urban League, NAACP, Robert Gough Shaw,
Freedom House, Boston Public Schools. In the projects, in the home, Bro Nubian, Nubian
Notion/Father, Chuck Turner classes,
2:30-4;30 Neighbors and Friends
- The Many Cultures (Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Puerto Rican,
- Music and Dance of Puerto Rico
- Olatunji Reacting with Chibuzo. (Dance)
5:00-6:30 Legal/Law, Medical, Professionals.
- Boston City Hospital Video (Boston Medical Center)
- Hip Hop Performance on the first Black doctor and RN in Boston

Info: 1:00-2:30 Food, Dining, Hotel, Travel
- Slades Presentation
- Bob the Chef’s Skit
- The Purpose of the Green Book, Poem or Story
3:30-6:00 Nightlife
- Jazz and Nightlife with The Reckonings Project
- Jazz Billy Holiday Skit and Performance

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Roxbury Community College, 1234 Columbus Avenue, Boston, United States