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Savannah’s historic West Broad neighborhood once thrived where present-day Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. now spans — only a few short blocks from SCAD MOA. Join community members as the Evans Center for African American Studies and cinema studies professor Chad Newsom lead a 90-minute, half-mile walking tour of MLK Boulevard. In the early 20th century, during the peak of segregation, this promenade proved to be a safe haven for Black businesses, entertainment, and culture. One of the most prominent entrepreneurs, Josephine Stiles, who was born to an enslaved mother, became among the wealthiest one percent of Black Georgians, accruing many businesses including the Pekin Theater. One of the first African American theaters in Savannah, the Pekin represents the richness of Black history from jazz legends and vaudeville shows to iconic film screenings.Participants should park at SCAD MOA and meet in the lobby. Dress accordingly for an outdoor event including warm clothes and comfortable walking shoes. The total walking distance is about one mile.
Immediately following the walking tour, The Evans Center presents a special edition of the Black Culture Rewind series, screening selected “race films,” a genre shown in historic Black theaters on West Broad Street.
This event is free and open to the public. RSVP for either [email protected]. Meet in the museum lobby.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
601 Turner Blvd, Savannah, GA, United States
