From PhillyVoice · · 1m 30s
City Council Renames University City Section Black Bottom
Philadelphia City Council officially recognizes a University City neighborhood as Black Bottom, the name it used in early 20th century before urban renewal demolition.
In brief
Philadelphia City Council officially recognizes a University City neighborhood as Black Bottom, the name it used in early 20th century before urban renewal demolition. Philadelphia City Council renamed a University City section Black Bottom to acknowledge a historically Black neighborhood demolished in 1960s urban…
City Council approves Black Bottom renaming
Philadelphia City Council approved legislation Thursday to officially identify a section of West Philly as Black Bottom.
Black Bottom neighborhood history
Black Bottom was a predominantly Black neighborhood established during the Great Migration from 1910 to 1930.
Demolition for urban renewal
In the 1960s, urban renewal funds were used to acquire and demolish homes in the area around Penn and Drexel.
Housing Act 1949 impact
The Housing Act of 1949 allowed local government to purchase areas considered blight to clean up.
West Philadelphia Corporation role
The West Philadelphia Corporation, made up of higher education and medical institutions, drove the demolition.
Resident perspective
Jerry Davis, a resident, said thousands lost homes for little or no compensation during urban renewal.
Councilmember Gauthier's stance
Councilmember Jamie Gauthier hopes renaming starts reparations including compensation for descendants.
Historical marker planned
A marker commemorating Black Bottom history is being prepared for installation.
Next steps for community
The city aims to formally recognize historical harm and move toward reparations for displaced residents.
The big picture
Philadelphia City Council renamed a University City section Black Bottom to acknowledge a historically Black neighborhood demolished in 1960s urban renewal.
