Learn the history of Indianapolis’ Indiana Ave–the former epicenter of the city’s jazz scene and a hub for Black-owned businesses.
About this Event

Meet the Teach: Judith Thomas is a long-time Indianapolis resident who has dedicated her time and talents to sharing Indy’s history and culture with residents and visitors, alike. Her combined experience as former Director of Convention Services at Visit Indy and most recently, former President of the Madam Walker Legacy Center have uniquely prepared her to be an Indianapolis Cultural Connector. Join us as she leads this lesson in local Black history.

Quick introduction to Indiana Ave (Source: Indiana Historical Society)

About Indiana Ave: One of the four original diagonal streets of the 1821 plan for Indianapolis, Indiana Avenue tells an important part of the story of African American life in Indianapolis, much of which was centered here on the near northwest side of the downtown area. In 1860, the African American population of Indianapolis numbered only 498, but just forty years later it reached more than 15,000, with the center of the African American community already firmly entrenched in and around Indiana Avenue. While Indiana Avenue that we see now consists mainly of commercial, housing, and university-related buildings, this street contained some of the most prominent jazz clubs of the mid-1900s.

(Source: https://publichistory.iupui.edu/items/show/242)

Proceeds from this event will be donated to Flanner House and Indy10. You are asked to make a minimum donation of $20 per ticket, but are encouraged to give in proportion to your means. You can read more about each organization here: Flanner House // Indy10 Black Lives Matter

*This event is free to attendees who are Black