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Preserving Black History in America, A Life's Work

Chris Simkins

   WASHINGTON - Tourists walk through an old Victorian-style row house in
   Washington's most historic African American neighborhood. As they move
   through rooms and up narrow stairwells, many are unaware the man who
   lived and worked here established the first black history observance.

   The home of Carter G. Woodson stands as a lasting tribute to the black
   historian, author and teacher who devoted his life to showcasing the
   treasures of African American history.

   "Woodson was a man with purpose. He set out to help African Americans
   uncover a lot of the truth about their history that seemingly was kept
   from them," said National Park Service Ranger John Fowler. The group of
   ethnically diverse visitors listens as Fowler points to the room where
   Woodson established "Negro History Week" in 1926. Now, the U.S.
   tradition is observed as Black History Month in February.

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