Mapping the Black Town: Perspectives on the Evolution of African American Communities

- Rudder, Justin
Cartography, or mapmaking, has existed since the 7th millennium BC. However, well-known maps, just like well-known historical writing, are usually produced by those who exercise political power and overlook the perspectives of groups who lack power. This presentation focuses on the development of cartography from Black perspectives of community — including internal understanding of Black settlements often known as "the bottoms" or "the quarters" — as well as discussion of how to share such information with both insiders and outsiders interested in local history.

A computer and projection screen are requested for this presentation.