Jeffrey Allen (DJ Jazzy Jeff) Townes (1965- )

Jeffrey Townes is an actor, comedian, and record producer who is more commonly known as “DJ Jazzy Jeff.” Townes was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on January 22, 1965. He began working in music at the age of 10 and attended local schools, graduating from John … Read MoreJeffrey Allen (DJ Jazzy Jeff) Townes (1965- )

Frederick D. Stubbs (1906-1947)

A prominent thoracic surgeon in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Dr. Frederick Douglass Stubbs, made important contributions to the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. He completed extensive training in thoracic (chest) medicine during and after medical school, including a yearlong residency at Sea View Hospital in Staten Island, New York, that concentrated … Read MoreFrederick D. Stubbs (1906-1947)

William B. Tillman (a.k.a. William Tilghman, 1834?-1880?)

The violent, heroic actions of an illiterate Black sailor threatened with enslavement enthralled newspaper and magazine readers during the tense early phase of the American Civil War. Born free in Milford, Delaware—a state that permitted slavery but had a relatively small slave population—William B. Tillman found opportunity as … Read MoreWilliam B. Tillman (a.k.a. William Tilghman, 1834?-1880?)

Collecting African American Art: From the Harlem Renaissance to the Obama Era

In the following article sociologist and African American Studies professor Patricia A. Banks describes the rise of private art collectors and collections among African Americans. Her article also shows the growing acceptance of African American art and artists in major museums and galleries across the … Read MoreCollecting African American Art: From the Harlem Renaissance to the Obama Era