Cleveland
One of many nightlife entertainment options in Cleveland; (c) Soul Of America
Cleveland is a powerhouse for Black Theatre, Black culture & heritage sites, Rock ‘n Roll, and the visual arts. “The Land” also features Soul Food, nightclubs, and Tower City appealing to all ages.
History
One of the first black settlers to the area was George Peake, who arrived in 1809
Cultural Sites
Jesse Owens Monument honors the first man to win 4 Olympic Gold Medals
Restaurants
Zanzibar’s Soul Fusion cuisine is still bringing the fire in every visit
Shops & Galleries
Update coming in May 2025
Parade The Circle in Cleveland
Karamu House
In response to the community, Playhouse Settlement was changed to Karamu House in 1941
Places of Worship
Founded in 1893, Antioch Baptist is a landmark leader in Black political & social life
Cleveland Food & Culture
Another perspective by our friends at Cuisine Noir
Historic Sites
The 1st Black-owned McDonald’s Franchise opened here in 1969
Welcome to Zanzibar, Cleveland; (c) Soul Of America
Rock n’ Roll Cleveland
In the 1930s, the term “Rock n’ Roll” was Black slang for engaging in sex
Hough District
From 1920 to the 1950s, this black community was the place to see and be seen
General Attractions
Tower City contains 100+ shops, 6 restaurants, a cineplex, amphitheater & 2 Hotels
Family Attractions
Great Lakes Science Center features 375 hands-on science & technology exhibits
The Arts
Internationally acclaimed Cleveland Museum of Art includes Egyptian statues to Impressionist works
Trivia & Famous Residents
Dorothy Dandridge was the 1st Black Nominee for the Best Actor Oscar
Early Diversity at Oberlin
Oberlin has a storied history relating to African Americans and the Underground Railroad
Oberlin Attractions
The First Church of Oberlin in the 1840s was influential in the Abolitionist Movement