February 17th 2025.
In the charming city of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, there lies a historical plaque that has recently been unveiled to honor the Black business district. As Black History Month continues, the downtown area is paying tribute to the entrepreneurial spirit of its Black citizens who played a vital role in shaping the city's landscape. From the 1800s to the 1970s, this district was bustling with a plethora of Black-owned businesses and loyal patrons. Despite being situated in the Jim Crow south, this community was able to thrive and leave a lasting impact on the city's history.
Mary Watkins, a lifelong resident of Rutherford County, shared her memories of the old days when families would gather and visit the Black-owned establishments for burgers or a game of pool. These businesses were an essential part of the community, and their legacy has stayed with Watkins throughout her life. As the President of the African American Heritage Society of Rutherford County, Watkins and her colleagues made sure that this recognition would endure through time. They were determined to honor the Black entrepreneurs who paved the way for future generations.
Watkins emphasized the importance of passing on this knowledge to the younger generation. She believes that it's crucial for them to know whose shoulders they stand on and the struggles that their ancestors faced. The Black business district was not just a place of commerce; it was a symbol of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
The district was home to a variety of businesses, including grocery stores, doctor's offices, and funeral homes. Its proximity to a residential area known as "The Bottoms" also brought in customers. This area was named for its tendency to flood and its mix of poor Black and white residents. Despite these challenges, the retail streets of the Black business district treated Black customers with respect, something that was not always common during that time.
Watkins fondly remembers how this was the only place where Black people could dine in and feel at home. She recalls, "This was it for us because we couldn't go to a lot of other establishments and sit down and eat. Even though we could go to a store and buy something, we couldn't sit down. But here, we were at home."
The new plaque, funded by Main Street Murfreesboro, serves as a lasting tribute to the businesses that once thrived in this district. Over time, these shops closed down due to various factors, such as desegregation, urban renewal, and gentrification. However, their impact and legacy continue to be revered, not just for their services but also for the dignified experience they offered to their customers.
Sarah Callender, the executive director of Main Street Murfreesboro, shared the importance of preserving the city's historic downtown and the stories of its past. She believes that by learning from the mistakes of the past and celebrating the achievements of those who came before, we can honor their legacy and pave the way for a better future. The hope is to collect photographs of the storied district, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Heritage Society.
The Black business district of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, has now joined the ranks of other historically significant places, such as the Black Wall Street of Tulsa's Greenwood District, which has recently been recognized as a nationally registered historic place. These acknowledgments serve as a reminder of the resilience and contributions of Black communities and the need to preserve their stories for future generations.
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