An unassuming building in New York City educated Black leaders. What will become of it? | New York

A Landmark Reclaimed: The Story of Colored School No 4

In the heart of Manhattan‘s Chelsea neighborhood, a modest brick building stands as a testament to nearly two centuries of Black American history.Known as Colored School No. 4, this unassuming structure, recently designated a landmark in 2023, is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of resilience, education, and the ongoing fight for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

A Beacon of Education in a Time of oppression

Built in 1850, before the abolition of slavery and during an era of rampant segregation, Colored School No. 4 served as a beacon of light for Black children in New York City. it provided access to elementary education for children aged six to fourteen, a common practise at the time. Subjects like reading, writing, arithmetic, and history were taught within its walls, empowering generations of young minds.

Alumni and the Fight for Preservation

This historic institution boasts notable alumni like James H Williams, the subject of historian Eric K Washington’s 2019 book, “Boss of the Grips: The Life of James H Williams and the Red caps of Grand Central Terminal.” Washington, an self-reliant scholar, discovered the school’s connection to Williams during his research.

“I was surprised to discover while I was researching his story that the building was still there,” Washington said. “I had passed it a thousand times because I would go to a thrift shop across the street from it for the past 20 years or so. If you blink, you miss it.”

Landmark status: A victory Hard Fought

Recognizing the immense cultural significance of Colored School No. 4, Washington filed a “request for evaluation” with the New York city landmarks preservation commission in 2018, sparking a four-and-a-half-year journey to secure local landmark status.A petition with over 2,800 signatures further amplified the call for preservation.

“We look forward to working with local preservationists and the community board to ensure this site remains a public asset, continuing to serve the cause of civil rights for generations to come,” said city council member Erik Bottcher.

Restoration Efforts and Future plans

The city, moving forward on the promise made by Mayor Eric Adams who pledged $6 million towards restoration efforts, is currently working on restoring the building damaged through years of water infiltration. The building faces extensive repairs, requiring considerable time and resources to bring it back to its former glory.

While the city continues its restoration efforts, historian Eric Washington envisions a future were Colored School No.4 transcends the confines of a museum.He imagines a vibrant cultural center where the community can gather, learn, and celebrate the achievements of Black Americans.

“I think it would be great if it had a performance space,” Washington said. “It’s bigger than it looks from the outside. It might very well be a marvelous community center.”

The story of Colored School No 4 is a story of perseverance, a reminder of the struggles overcome, and a testament to the enduring legacy of Black Americans in shaping the tapestry of New york City. The restoration of this historic landmark is not just about preserving a building; it is about preserving a crucial piece of history and ensuring its message of hope, resilience, and educational empowerment continues to resonate for generations to come.

what message does the preservation of Colored School No. 4 carry for future generations?

An Interview with Historian Eric K. Washington: The Resilience of Colored School No. 4

In the Spotlight: A Landmark Reclaimed

Archyde News recently caught up with historian Eric K. Washington to discuss the significance, preservation, and future of Colored School No. 4, a pivotal landmark in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood.

Beacon of Education in Turbulent Times

Eric, could you share a bit about Colored School No. 4’s origins and its role during the era of oppression and segregation?

Eric K. Washington: Certainly. Colored School No. 4 was built in 1850, long before the abolition of slavery and during a time of harsh racial segregation. It served as a beacon of education for Black children in New York City, providing access to elementary education at a time when such opportunities were scarce.

Notable Alumni and the Fight for Preservation

Your work on ‘Boss of the Grips’ revealed the school’s connection to one of its notable alumni, James H. Williams. Can you tell us more about this discovery and its impact on the preservation efforts?

Eric K. Washington: I was quite surprised to find out that the building was still standing while researching James H. Williams’ life. His story added legitimacy to the calls for preserving this historic site. I passed the building countless times, but it’s easy to miss; its unassuming appearance belies its immense historical significance.

Landmark Status: A Hard-Fought Victory

After your request for evaluation, what were some of the challenges and triumphs in securing local landmark status for Colored School No. 4?

Eric K. Washington: the process took nearly five years, but with community support – over 2,800 signatures on a petition – and the city council’s commitment, we finally achieved success. It was a collective effort,and I’m grateful to everyone who contributed.

Restoration Efforts and Future Plans

The city is pledging $6 million for restoration. Once the repairs are complete, what vision do you have for Colored School No. 4’s future?

Eric K. Washington: I imagine it becoming a vibrant cultural center, a community gathering space where people can learn about, celebrate, and honor the achievements of Black Americans. It could even have a performance space to host events.

Eric, what message does this historic site carry for future generations?

Eric K. Washington: It’s a story of perseverance and resilience. It reminds us of the struggles overcome,the power of education to empower,and the enduring legacy of Black Americans shaping the narrative of this city.