African-American Historic Property Study Celebrated
Nov. 8, 2004
City leaders, community leaders and students gathered today to celebrate
the long history of African-American residents and neighborhoods in Phoenix.
The event at historic Eastlake Park, 1540 E. Jefferson St., marked the completion
of the city's first-ever study of African-American historic properties and
neighborhoods.
The survey encompasses social, political and cultural history from 1868-1970.
The Phoenix Historic Preservation Office is planning similar studies of Hispanic,
Asian-American and Native-American heritages.
"The Phoenix African-American community has made a significant impact throughout
our region," Councilmember Michael Johnson said. "Now we are documenting that
history and working to preserve it."
Students from Augustus Shaw Elementary attended, getting a first-hand look
at history. The study recommends listing 26 individual properties and two
neighborhoods on the city's Historic Property Register and National Register
of Historic Places.
"It is crucial for us to mark our history throughout the city," Mayor Phil
Gordon said. "Studies of African-American and other ethnic neighborhoods broaden
our overall commitment to historic preservation."
For more information and to read the survey, visit phoenix.gov/HISTORIC.
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