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A brief history of beer parlors and beer brewers in the Central District of Seattle
#ThrowbackThursday - Nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Seattle's Central District lies a rich history of beer parlors and breweries that have left an indelible mark on the local community. From the bustling beer parlors of the 1940s to the dynamic craft breweries of today, the Central District has been a hub of beer culture for generations.
Washington State’s Black History: Russell ‘Noodles’ Smith
Russell ‘Noodles’ Smith and Burr ‘Blackie’ Williams are quickly identified as early co-owners of Seattle’s Black & Tan Club that was a jazz entertainment hub 1922-1966. The BHS archive holds an amazing collection of memorabilia and photos in two albums that gives a glimpse of their lives, acquaintances, escapades, businesses, and friendship.
Washington State’s Black History: Jonathan Moore
Jonathan Moore (1969-2017) hip-hop pioneer, musician, brilliant lyricist, educator, collaborator, youth advocate, and mentor was “Wordsayer”. He was a founding member of the Source of Labor crew that was a unique voice to arrive on the hip-hop scene in early 1990s Seattle.
Washington State’s Black History: Freddie Mae Gautier
Freddie Mae Gautier (1930-2001) was a community activist, political advisor, mentor, and well-known businesswoman who lived in Seattle. From 1953-1967, Gautier worked as a matron in the KC Sheriff’s office. She became an advocate for social justice and a prominent figure in the civil rights movement both at home and nationally.
Washington State’s Black History: DeCharlene Williams
DeCharlene Williams (1943-2018) was a Seattle Central District icon. A business owner, fierce advocate for Black business, history, and culture she opened her first beauty salon on 25th Ave & E Union in 1965 and by 1968 she purchased a storefront on 22nd Ave & E Madison Street that still operates today.
Washington State’s Black History: The Black and Tan Club
The Black and Tan Club at 12th Ave & S Jackson Street in Seattle was the place to go, be seen, and take in the local and visiting entertainment. At the Black Heritage Society of Washington State, we hold many memories of the club that we’ll keep sharing when the opportunity arises.
Washington State’s Black History: Manima Wilson Davis
Manima Wilson Davis was born in Everett, WA in 1886, Washington was not yet a state. Her father and mother, Samuel and Arminta Wilson were known for their community activism and Manima would follow in their footsteps in years to come. She graduated from Everett High School in 1907 and went on to attain a bachelor’s degree in education at the University of Washington where she is believed to be the first Black woman graduate from the UW.
Washington State’s Black History: Colman Service Men’s Club and Volunteer Hostesses
On May 22, 1942, fourteen representatives from various Central District organizations in the East Madison neighborhoods met with administrators at the Office of the Civilian War Commission to discuss the forming of a committee to establish and maintain a Branch of the Service Men’s Club for the convenience of Black soldiers.
Washington State’s Black History: Wesley “Wes” Craven
The BHS archives hold items of The Craven Family who are an early pioneering Black family rooted in Roslyn and Seattle, WA. The souvenir t-shirt and boxing gloves belong to Wesley “Wes” Craven.
#TBT - Photographer Al Smith captured the heart and soul of Seattle’s Black Community.
Photographer Al Smith captured Black life, culture, music, fashion, and family in Seattle’s Central District in the 1940s - 1960s. His photos are also the inspiration behind the iconic interview wall at Converge Media’s #BlackMediaMatters Studios in downtown Seattle.
