Celebrating North Philadelphia Oral History Project at Temple University
The North Philadelphia History Festival, which took place from July 24 to 27, was more than just a gathering—it was a loud and proud celebration of the African American and Puerto Rican communities that have shaped North Philadelphia’s soul. The festival opened with a bang at Temple University’s Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection. The event kicked off with We Remember and We Recall: North Philadelphia Oral History Project, inviting folks to dive headfirst into the stories and legacies that date back to the 1930s.
Honors and Stories: Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection
Temple University’s Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection is like a treasure trove, stuffed with more than 700,000 items that speak to the rich history of African American culture. On the festival’s first day, a stellar collection of interviews featured locals like Marilyn Baker Alston and Rev. Joseph Williams Jr., spilling tales that ranged from neighborhood cookouts to the Harlem Renaissance vibes. These weren’t just stories—they were history lessons wrapped in personal memories that took us on a time-travel trip from the past to present.
| Person | Story Highlight |
|---|---|
| Marilyn Baker Alston | First Black PR firm owner’s niece |
| Rev. Joseph Williams Jr. | Sunday southern feasts and community bonding |
| Karen Warrington | Discovering African dance and identity |
Behind the Feast: The Impact of Rev. Paul Washington and Leon Sullivan
Folks also got the chance to see materials connected to heavyweights like Rev. Paul Washington and Leon Sullivan, who fought for social justice back in the day. These legends were major contributors to the community’s history. Their stories were shared at the festival, thanks to the work of Diane D. Turner and her librarian crew led by Aslaku Berhanu. They laid out tables of archival gold: Rev. Washington, who famously opened his church to the Black Panther Party, and Leon Sullivan, a civil rights hero with a heart of gold.
Art in the Streets: A Look at the Festival
The festival transformed everyday places along Ridge Avenue and North Broad Street into immersive stages where folks could stroll through living exhibits. Artists, historians, and curators teamed up to create these vibrant exhibits that were a nod to the community’s backbone—the people. Young and old got involved, making this festival a visual testament to North Philadelphia’s vibrant cultural tapestry.
Speaking Through Time: Importance of Oral Histories
Why do these stories matter so dang much? Besides the fact that they’re downright fascinating, oral history keeps these memories fresh and alive. It’s like bottling up the essence of a community and preserving it for future generations. Projects like We Remember and We Recall: North Philadelphia Oral History Project don’t just record history—they breathe life into it, ensuring the rich diversity isn’t lost amidst tales of hardship.
Boosting the Future: Educational Support and Resources
The collaboration within Temple University doesn’t end with just recording stories; it’s about reaffirming their commitment to supporting the community. Turner and Serkkadis Alemayehu, educational technologist supreme, produced more than 20 interviews, safeguarding tales that would otherwise fade away. Their work reiterates how essential it is to offer resources and a platform for everyone to ensure these voices echo for years to come.
The Legacy Continues
The festival and the Blockson Collection’s projects reaffirm that history isn’t just in textbooks; it’s in the shared experiences of community members who lived it. As the project soldiers on, it opens doors for more people with stories to share and experiences to document. Current and past residents of North Philadelphia interested in storytelling should holler at Blockson Collection via phone (215) 204-6632 or drop them an email at [email protected].
Further Reading
For more on these incredible histories and to stay updated with Temple University’s ongoing projects, check out additional resources:
- Black History Month: 28 Hidden Gems from the Blockson Collection
- “Black Lives Always Mattered!” Invites All to See Philadelphia History in Living Color
- Remembering Charles L. Blockson
That’s the scoop! Festivals like this ensure that North Philadelphia’s cultural heritage burns brightly for generations to come.