Nashville is full of history that we grew up hearing, but there is still a ton that we don’t know. Nashville is home to some huge moments in African American culture, and we should celebrate all the victories , both known and unknown.
Jefferson Street Sound Museum
Address: 2004 Jefferson St., Nashville TN 37208
Phone: (615) 414-6675
Jefferson Street Sound Museum is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the classic sound of Jefferson Street. The museum partners with local Nashville public schools to nourish the musically gifted and immerse lovers of music in Nashville’s rich history throughout the city. Lorenzo Washington, Founder and Curator of JSSM, cites his passion for family, community, and preserving “Back In The Day” music for the strides made by the museum and its impact on the Nashville community.
Meharry Medical College & Hubbard House
Address: 1109 1st Ave S, Nashville TN 37210
Meharry Medical College was the first to offer admission to African Americans in the South. The college began as an extension of Central Tennessee College with Dr. George Whipple Hubbard as the first president and dean of the institution. Hubbard worked diligently to establish dentistry and pharmacy disciples at Meharry Medical College. Hubbard also worked to ensure hospital privileges for students seeing that the college did not have access to a hospital at the time. Hubbard had a home built on the Meharry Medical College campus where he would go to retire. The house is the last remnants of the original campus.
The Little Theatre
Address: 998 Dr DB Todd Jr Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
The Little Theatre is the oldest structure on Fisk University’s campus. Erected in 1860, as part of a Union Army hospital barracks during the Civil War, it was known as the “Railroad Hospital” because of its proximity to the railroad which is now in the popular Gulch neighborhood. In 1873, the building was moved to its current position, and in 1935, Fisk University renovated the building into a performing arts space for student production. The Little Theatre remains in use to the present day for student and community use. It is located next to the renowned Fisk University Galleries.
Witness Walls
Address: 1 Public Sq., Nashville TN 37201
The Witness Walls are large pieces of art on concrete created by Walter Hood and other fellow activists. The walls are meant to capture moments during the Civil Rights Movement in Nashville. The installations include snapshots of school desegregation, sit-ins, Freedom rides and more. The Witness Walls sit beside Davidson County Courthouse and give locals and newcomers a view into the true history of Nashville.
