Chicago

Introduction

The Great Migration, spanning from 1916 to 1970, was the largest internal migration in American history, with over six million Black people moving from the rural South to urban centers in the North and West. This story follows the journey of our ancestors as they navigated these challenging times and sought better lives in Chicago, Illinois.

The Early Lives of Jack Davenport and Amanda Wilkerson

Jack Davenport, born in 1850 in Lexington, Georgia, and Amanda Wilkerson, born in 1841 in Oglethorpe, Georgia, were born into slavery and faced systemic oppression under the Jim Crow laws. The constant threat of racial violence and economic exploitation significantly impacted their lives.

A Moment of Liberation:

As recounted by Ted Davenport, his grandfather discovered his freedom in a dramatic moment when a Northern soldier walked down the road and informed him that the war was over and he was free. This moment of liberation was both thrilling and daunting as it opened up new possibilities and uncertainties.

Life in Chicago, Illinois

Arrival and Settlement

Jack Davenport and Amanda Wilkerson moved to Chicago in the 1920s, seeking better economic opportunities and safety from racial violence. They settled in the Bronzeville neighborhood, known for its vibrant Black culture and business district. Our family has been part of the fabric of the city for nearly 100 years.

Addresses and Neighborhoods:

– Jack and Amanda Davenport lived at 4129 S. Indiana Avenue, Chicago. Bronzeville was known as the “Black Metropolis,” a hub for Black culture, music, and business during the early 20th century. Historical photos of this area can be found at the [Bronzeville Historical Society](http://bronzevillehistoricalsociety.wordpress.com/).

Visual Representation:

– Historical photos of Bronzeville can be found at the [Bronzeville Historical Society](http://bronzevillehistoricalsociety.wordpress.com).

– More historical photos can be accessed through the [Chicago History Museum](https://www.chicagohistory.org).

Chicago in the 1920s

When Jack and Amanda Davenport arrived in Chicago in the 1920s, the city was bustling with energy and growth. Chicago was known for its towering skyscrapers, vibrant jazz scene, and burgeoning industries. The Great Migration had brought a significant influx of Black residents to the city, leading to the development of a thriving cultural and business district in Bronzeville. This neighborhood was a center for Black intellectuals, artists, and entrepreneurs, offering a sense of community and opportunity that was hard to find in the South.

However, Chicago was also deeply segregated, with restrictive covenants limiting where Black families could live. Despite the vibrancy of places like Bronzeville, systemic racism and economic exploitation remained significant challenges. Housing shortages and overcrowded living conditions were common, and Black residents often faced hostility from white communities when they tried to move into new neighborhoods.

Visual Representation:

– Photos of Chicago in the 1920s can be found at the [Chicago History Museum](https://www.chicagohistory.org).

Discrimination and Challenges

Despite the opportunities, Black citizens in Chicago faced significant discrimination. Housing segregation was enforced through restrictive covenants, limiting where Black families could live. Employment discrimination was also rampant, with many factories reserving the best jobs for white workers. Chicago was one of the most segregated cities in America, a lasting impact that shaped the lives and opportunities available to its Black residents.

Major Historical Events in Chicago

The 1919 Chicago Race Riot:

The 1919 Chicago Race Riot began on July 27, 1919, and lasted until August 3, 1919. This riot was sparked by racial tensions and resulted in 38 deaths and over 500 injuries. It had a lasting impact on the Black community and the city’s approach to race relations. The violence erupted after a Black teenager was stoned and drowned by a white mob at a segregated beach. The incident escalated into a week of violence, arson, and looting, with Black homes and businesses being targeted.

Visual Representation:

– Historical photos and accounts of the 1919 Chicago Race Riot can be found at the [Chicago History Museum](https://www.chicagohistory.org).

The Great Depression:

The Great Depression hit Chicago hard, leading to widespread unemployment and economic hardship. However, the city’s industrial base allowed it to recover more quickly than many other places.

World War II:

World War II significantly impacted Chicago, as many residents, including Black citizens, joined the armed forces. The war effort also boosted the local economy, with factories ramping up production for military supplies. Returning veterans, inspired by their experiences and the fight for freedom abroad, became more vocal in advocating for civil rights. This period saw an increased push for equality and better opportunities for Black Americans in Chicago.

Impact of Veterans:

Returning veterans from Chicago were instrumental in the civil rights movement. Many were inspired to fight for equal rights, having served their country abroad but returning to a society that still denied them basic freedoms.

The 1966 Chicago Freedom Movement:

The 1966 Chicago Freedom Movement, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., aimed to challenge segregation and improve living conditions for Black residents. The movement highlighted issues such as inadequate housing, poor education, and police brutality. It was one of the largest civil rights campaigns in the North and significantly impacted the push for fair housing legislation.

Visual Representation:

– Historical photos of the 1966 Chicago Freedom Movement can provide context and visual impact for this narrative. [Source for photos](https://digital.chipublib.org/digital/collection/p16029coll3).

The Korean War and Vietnam War:

Both the Korean War and the Vietnam War significantly impacted the Black community in Chicago. Many Black residents served in these wars, and their experiences influenced their views on civil rights and social justice. The challenges they faced abroad and at home underscored the ongoing struggle for equality.

Visual Representation:

– Photos of Black soldiers during these wars can be found at the [National Archives](https://www.archives.gov).

Frank and Cecelia Alexander in Chicago

Motivation to Move to Chicago

Frank Alexander and Cecelia Suggs initially moved to Lansing, Michigan, to save up money. After securing enough funds, they moved back to Chicago in search of better economic opportunities and a more vibrant community life.

Life and Work in Chicago

Jobs and Addresses:

– Initially, Frank and Cecelia settled on Wells Street in the north part of the city. However, due to gentrification, they were forced to move to the south side, near 1529 East 73rd Street, aligning with the rest of the Black community.

Visual Representation:

– Historical photos of Wells Street and the south side neighborhoods can be found at the [Chicago History Museum](https://www.chicagohistory.org).

Population Changes Over Time

The population of Chicago grew significantly during the Great Migration and post-World War II periods, reflecting the influx of Black families seeking better opportunities and contributing to the city’s cultural richness.

Population Data:

– 1920: Total population – 2,701,705; Black population – 109,458

– 1930: Total population – 3,376,438; Black population – 233,903

– 1940: Total population – 3,396,808; Black population – 278,565

– 1950: Total population – 3,620,962; Black population – 492,265

– 1960: Total population – 3,550,404; Black population – 813,734

– 1970: Total population – 3,366,957; Black population – 1,102,620

– 1980: Total population – 3,005,072; Black population – 1,210,865

– 1990: Total population – 2,783,726; Black population – 1,187,865

– 2000: Total population – 2,896,016; Black population – 1,065,009

– 2010: Total population – 2,695,598; Black population – 875,608

– 2020: Total population – 2,746,388; Black population – 842,092

Conclusion

Our family’s nearly century-long history in Chicago is a testament to resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of equality. From the early struggles of Jack and Amanda Davenport to the challenges and triumphs of Frank and Cecelia Alexander, each generation has contributed to the fabric of this city. As we reflect on this legacy, we honor the past and continue to strive for a future where justice and equality prevail.

Visual Recommendations:

– Historical photos of Bronzeville, Wells Street, and the south side neighborhoods can be accessed through the [Chicago History Museum](https://www.chicagohistory.org).

– Photos of Black soldiers during the wars can be found at the [National Archives](https://www.archives.gov).

– Historical photos of the 1919 Chicago Race Riot and the 1966 Chicago Freedom Movement can be found at the [Chicago History Museum](https://www.chicagohistory.org) and the [Chicago Public Library Digital Collections](https://digital.chipublib.org/digital/collection/p16029coll3).