Sweet Auburn Avenue is the birthplace of many successful African-American businesses, churches and was home to prominent leaders like Martin Luther King, Jr. As we enter Black History Month, let’s take a closer look at this influential community and its rich history.
John Wesley Dobbs, known as the unofficial mayor of Auburn Avenue, referred to the street as “the richest Negro street in the world” because many prominent African-American businessmen, entertainers, civil rights and religious leaders got their start and formed roots in this community.
The avenue begins at the fork of Irwin Street in the Edgewood neighborhood and continues westward until it dead-ends into Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta. The beginning of Auburn Avenue is filled with painted, turn-of-the-century homes, some shot-gun shacks and some grander two-stories. Approaching Boulevard Avenue is the home of Martin Luther King, Jr. Right-around-the-corner stands the Ebenezer Baptist Church where King’s father was a minister.
Continuing westward is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Non-Violent and Social Change a.k.a. the King Center. It was established in 1968 by Corretta Scott King who focuses on MLK’s philosophy of eliminating poverty, violence and racism through non-violent means.
Immediately after crossing over I-75/I-85 is the Apex Museum, which houses a life-like replica of one of the first African-American drugstores, Yates & Mitlon, and other historical galleries and items.
Running parallel to Auburn Avenue, is Edgewood Avenue, a major part of the Sweet Auburn District. On this street, is the Sweet Auburn Curb Market. This market was once a segregated one-stop shop for fresh produce and farm goods. Today it still offers these items as well as hot meals and locally-made items.
Last, but not least is the Royal Peacock. Established in 1930, this nightclub is where many prominent entertainers performed including: Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin and James Brown. It’s still in operation today and features various musical and entertainment acts.
To experience more of Sweet Auburn’s history, visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site where you can stand in the footsteps of civil rights leaders, literally, on the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame. Foot impressions of civil rights leaders like Rosa Parks and President Jimmy Carter were taken and are featured along the tour.
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