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Discover the untold story of Herbert Hawkins and the community connections that shaped life on Indiana Avenue, followed by an exploration of the Avenue’s rich history, people, places, and legacy with the Encyclopedia of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Public Library.
What does it mean to be remembered—and what can one person’s story reveal about an entire community?
Join writer, researcher, and storyteller Michelle Dartis, Ph.D. through the rediscovery of Hawkins’ life, Dr. Dartis will explore how he built a life of entrepreneurship, service, and community connection on historic Indiana Avenue. As a businessman who operated a filling station and worked in the taxi industry, Hawkins created opportunities, supported his community, and participated in the organizations and networks that helped sustain one of Indianapolis’ most important Black communities.
Following Dr. Dartis’s presentation, the Encyclopedia of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Public Library will broaden the story by providing historical context on Indiana Avenue, including redlining, segregation, transportation inequities, and other systemic forces that shaped the community during Herbert Hawkins’ lifetime. Using archival and public-history resources, they will help attendees examine how these forces affected the Avenue’s people, businesses, institutions, and neighborhoods and connect participants with resources for discovering and preserving more of Indianapolis’ Black history.
Together, these stories invite us to consider how history is preserved, whose stories are remembered, and how the connections built by earlier generations continue to shape Indianapolis today.
This event is free and open to the public. This event will be held in the Center for Black Literature and Culture. All are welcome.
This event is part of the Spirit & Place Festival (Nov. 5–15). Learn more at spiritandplace.org. By registering for this event, you agree that your email address can be shared with Spirit & Place.
AGE GROUP: | Seniors | All Ages | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Lecture/Panel Discussion | Center for Black Literature and Culture | Author Visit |
TAGS: | Encyclopedia of Indianapolis |
As the hub of the Indianapolis Public Library system, Central Library showcases renowned architecture and services. The original 1917 building, designed by Paul Cret and constructed of Indiana limestone in the Greek Doric style, was considered one of the most outstanding secular buildings in the U.S. Its six-story glass and steel-framed addition, designed by Evans Woollen, opened in 2007.