Honoring Black History in Dallas

Posted: February 2024

Travel is about exploring cultures. Whether you’re a visitor exploring Dallas in February or a local that is passionate about travel, there’s no better time than Black History Month to delve into this city’s rich African American cultural history. Dallas, Texas is a city that offers many opportunities to learn, reflect, and celebrate the vibrant heritage of African Americans who have contributed significantly to its story. As a former international flight attendant and a Singapore ex-pat passionate about travel, I am experienced in the long layover and shortstop and getting the most out of a trip or vacation. If you visit Dallas in February, here are five Dallas destinations to explore. These sites will help you embrace the spirit of travel and celebrate Black History Month in the captivating city of Dallas.

Uptown Dallas is known for its upscale living and vibrant entertainment scene. However, it holds a dual identity. While Uptown exudes modernity and historical charm, its roots are deeply embedded in African American history. The area, formerly known as Freedman Town, was one of the largest Black communities in Dallas. As a former resident of Uptown, there is little to see of the thriving Black community that once existed here. However, a visit here would not be complete without a stop at Freedman’s Cemetery. The cemetery was established in 1869 for formerly enslaved and free African Americans. It is also the largest Freedman’s cemetery in the country. It serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and triumphs of the post-Civil War era.

The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL) is a cultural beacon in Dallas, making its mark felt throughout the year. However, its significance shines even brighter during Black History Month. TBAAL’s rich tapestry of cultural programs and educational initiatives celebrates African American heritage. Exploring its calendar during this month is a fascinating journey into the vibrant tapestry of African American culture and history.

Located in the Dallas Arts District, St. Paul United Methodist Church was originally established as “St. Paul Colored Methodist Episcopal Church. The church has a storied past that includes the establishment of an educational institution named the St. Paul Colored Methodist Episcopal School, for Black children. It was founded by freed slaves in 1873. The church’s walls have echoed the voices of civil rights leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Today, a historical landmark in Dallas commemorates its pivotal role in civil rights history and African American heritage.

Deep Ellum is a Dallas neighborhood steeped in musical history. It provides a dynamic backdrop for exploring Black heritage during Black History Month. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in live music, explore art galleries, and discover a neighborhood that played a pivotal role in shaping Dallas’s cultural and musical landscape. Deep Ellum’s vibrant arts district, adorned with street art and cultural festivals, is a testament to the diversity and creativity of the African American community and beyond. The neighborhood’s murals, historical markers, and cultural events provide an immersive experience of its rich history and the artists who contributed to its enduring legacy.

As you embark on your journey through Dallas’s Black history, be reminded that this city’s story is an ode to resilience, creativity, and progress. Black History Month provides a unique opportunity to explore the cultural tapestry that has enriched Dallas. From the African American Museum at Fair Park to Uptown’s historical gems, TBAAL’s cultural celebrations, St. Paul United Methodist’s historical significance and the vibrant Deep Ellum neighborhood, Dallas offers a captivating journey into its African American community’s diverse and enduring heritage. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, let this visit to Dallas be a celebration of history, culture, and unity in the heart of Texas.