Raleigh African American History Tour

The Raleigh African American History Tour offers a compelling way to explore the city’s rich Black heritage. Led by a knowledgeable local historian, this one-hour guided walking experience takes participants on a journey through significant landmarks along East Hargett Street. From the historic Hamlin and Delaney buildings to the former site of the Lincoln Theater, the tour reveals the resilience and contributions of African Americans in shaping Raleigh’s cultural landscape. Those interested in uncovering the untold stories of this community won’t want to miss this captivating experience.

Good To Know

• The tour explores Raleigh’s historic Black Main Street, highlighting significant landmarks and the resilience of the African American community.
• Visitors can experience the rich history and cultural legacy of Raleigh’s Black community through guided visits to sites like the Hamlin and Delaney buildings.
• The tour showcases the creativity and entrepreneurship of Raleigh’s African American residents, reflected in architectural gems like the East Davie Presbyterian Church.
• Led by a local historian, the tour provides an accessible way for visitors to learn about the importance of these historic sites to Raleigh’s African American heritage.
• The tour concludes at the former sites of the Dove Music Store and Lincoln Theater, underscoring the community’s vibrant cultural and political legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Raleigh African American History Tour is a 1-hour guided walking experience that takes visitors through the historic sites significant to Raleigh’s African American community.

The tour starts at the Fayetteville Street entrance of the Raleigh Downtown Sheraton and is conducted in English. It’s wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to explore Raleigh’s Black Main Street, the Hamlin and Delaney buildings, the East Davie Presbyterian Church, and the former Dove Music Store and Lincoln Theater.

A local historian leads the tour, sharing the rich history and importance of these landmarks to the African American community.

Pricing and Booking

Pricing for the Raleigh African American History Tour starts from $13.34 per person.

Pricing for the Raleigh African American History Tour starts from $13.34 per person.

Booking is easy – customers can reserve now and pay later, with no upfront payment required. There’s also free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows visitors to plan their trip with confidence.

The tour explores Raleigh’s Black Main Street and other historic sites significant to the African American community, guided by a local historian.

With these affordable rates and hassle-free booking, the tour provides an accessible way to discover Raleigh’s rich African American heritage.

Tour Highlights

Highlights of the Raleigh African American History Tour include guided exploration by a local historian, a walk through Raleigh’s historic Black Main Street, and the opportunity to experience the rich history of the city’s African American community.

The tour features visits to several significant sites:

1. East Hargett Street, the heart of Raleigh’s historic Black Main Street.

2. The Hamlin Building and Delaney Building, important landmarks.

3. East Davie Presbyterian Church, a notable political site designed by a prominent black architect.

4. The former location of Dove Music Store and Lincoln Theater on Cabarrus Street.

Itinerary Details

Although the tour includes visits to several historic sites significant to Raleigh’s African American community, the itinerary focuses on the East Hargett Street area, which was once the heart of the city’s historic Black Main Street.

Participants will explore the Hamlin Building and Delaney Building, two landmarks that housed businesses and organizations important to the local Black community.

The Hamlin Building and Delaney Building were landmarks that housed businesses and organizations vital to Raleigh’s historic Black community.

They’ll also visit the East Davie Presbyterian Church, a notable site for African American political activities, designed by a prominent Black architect.

The tour concludes at the former site of the Dove Music Store and Lincoln Theater on Cabarrus Street.

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East Hargett Street (Historic Black Main Street)

East Hargett Street, once the thriving heart of Raleigh’s historic Black Main Street, takes center stage on this tour.

Visitors will:

1. Discover the rich history of this vibrant commercial district, home to Black-owned businesses, cultural institutions, and community hubs.

2. Learn about the resilience of the African American community in the face of segregation and urban renewal efforts that threatened to erase this important legacy.

3. Explore the architectural gems that remain, including the Hamlin and Delaney Buildings, showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurship of Raleigh’s Black residents.

4. Gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring impact of this historic corridor on Raleigh’s cultural fabric.

Hamlin Building and Delaney Building

The Hamlin and Delaney Buildings stand as architectural gems along East Hargett Street, immortalizing the resilience and creativity of Raleigh’s historic Black community.

The Hamlin Building, constructed in 1913, housed offices, shops, and entertainment venues that served as hubs for African American professionals and entrepreneurs.

The neighboring Delaney Building, built in 1910, also accommodated Black-owned businesses, including the pioneering Mechanics and Farmers Bank.

These structures embody the thriving commercial district that emerged despite Jim Crow segregation, reflecting the ingenuity and determination of Raleigh’s African American residents to build their own vibrant community.

East Davie Presbyterian Church

The East Davie Presbyterian Church stands as a landmark of Raleigh’s African American history, designed by renowned Black architect, P.H. Lightfoot.

This historic church played a crucial role in the community:

1. It served as an important political site, hosting speeches and meetings that galvanized the local African American population.

2. The church’s architecture reflects the talent and creativity of Black designers, challenging the era’s racial barriers.

3. It remains a symbol of the resilience and determination of Raleigh’s African American residents.

4. Today, the East Davie Presbyterian Church continues to honor its legacy as a cornerstone of the community.

Former Site of Dove Music Store and Lincoln Theater on Cabarrus Street

On Cabarrus Street, visitors can find the former site of the iconic Dove Music Store and Lincoln Theater, which once served as hubs of African American culture and entertainment in Raleigh.

The Dove Music Store was a beloved institution, offering the latest records and hosting live performances.

A beloved hub offering the latest records and live performances, the Dove Music Store was an institution in Raleigh’s African American community.

Next door, the Lincoln Theater was a thriving movie house, showcasing films and hosting events that catered to the local Black community.

These historic sites hold deep significance, representing the vibrant cultural heritage and resilience of Raleigh’s African American community during a time of segregation and discrimination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to fully experience the historical sites and learn about Raleigh’s African American community. The guided tour ensures an inclusive and accessible experience for participants with disabilities.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements. It’s suitable for participants of all ages, making it an educational experience for the whole family to explore Raleigh’s African American history together.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized for Specific Interests?

The tour can’t be customized, but participants can share their specific interests with the guide. The guide will aim to tailor the commentary to highlight the most relevant and engaging aspects of the tour for each group.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is currently only offered in English. While other language options aren’t available, the tour can still be informative and engaging for non-English speakers with the help of a translator or guide.

Are Any COVID-19 Precautions in Place During the Tour?

The tour operator follows all local COVID-19 safety guidelines. Masks are required indoors, and social distancing is encouraged. Hand sanitizer is provided, and tour group sizes are limited to allow for proper spacing.

The Sum Up

The Raleigh African American History Tour provides visitors with a captivating exploration of the city’s rich Black heritage. Led by a knowledgeable local historian, the tour takes participants through the historic East Hargett Street, showcasing significant landmarks that highlight the resilience and contributions of African Americans in shaping Raleigh’s cultural landscape. It’s an informative and immersive experience for anyone interested in learning about the city’s diverse history.

You can check availability for your dates here: