Harlem - Icon of African American Culture
Before the arrival of colonizers, the area that would become Harlem was inhabited by the Manhattans, one of the Lenape subtribes. The first settlers established it in 1637, and the neighborhood was formally incorporated as Nieuw Haarlem in 1660.
Starting in 1916, many African Americans, fleeing the segregation laws of the South, migrated to urban areas in the northern United States and settled in Harlem. The neighborhood quickly emerged as a cultural and social hub for people of African descent.
Marked by an explosion of literary, artistic, and musical creativity, the area became the epicenter of the Harlem Renaissance, an event that helped pave the way for the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s.
During this period, the legendary Apollo Theater and the Cotton Club became launching pads for the fame of many Black artists, including Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Louis Armstrong, Ethel Waters, Lena Horne, The Nicholas Brothers, and others.
Harlem is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood with a rich history and a unique cultural scene. Here are some of the various options the neighborhood offers to visitors:
■ Apollo Theater: Located at 253 West 125th Street.
■ Studio Museum in Harlem: Located at 144 West 125th Street.
■ Sylvia's Restaurant: Located at 328 Malcolm X Blvd.
■ Malcolm Shabazz Harlem Market: Located at 52 West 116th Street.
A reminder: don't miss attending a Gospel worship service to hear the music that originated in African American churches and had a significant influence on the emergence of R&B (1940), Rock (1950), Soul and Funk (1960), and Rap (1970).
Here are some important tips for you when visiting one of Harlem's churches:
■ Walk around the neighborhood and step into any small church you come across. You'll always be welcomed.
■ Try to arrive early for the service. The earlier you show up, the fewer tourists you'll encounter.
■ Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops. Opt for more formal and respectful attire.
■ Try to go with a small group (2 or 3 people maximum). This will make it easier to integrate with the congregation.
■ Sing, clap your hands, and embrace the people around you. The atmosphere is infectious and joyful. Be open to experiencing moments of joy and spirituality.
■ Remember that the Gospel worship service is a moment of faith and worship for the local community. Respect the traditions and enjoy this unique experience.
Consider visiting one of these churches:
■ https://www.bethelga.org/
■ https://fcbcnyc.org/about/our-story
■ https://stjames302.org/
Or participate in a tour for a complete experience:
■ www.harlemheritage.com
■ welcometoharlem.com
Did you like the chronicle? Give it a LIKE and share it with your friends. Comments are welcome.
April 20, 2024
Davilmar Santos