The Hippodrome Theatre (c.1940)
The Hippodrome Theatre (2014)
Site: The Hippodrome Theatre
Date of Construction: 1904
Reason for Construction: Built as an entertainment site to cater the black community and offer a new entertainment venue to many black artists, particularly in the Southeastern half of the United States.
Site History: Built in 1904, the Hippodrome was the center of entertainment for the Richmond area. The Hippodrome was built as a vaudeville and movie theater, however, soon it became a performance venue, attracting stars like Ells Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, and Cab Calloway, to mention a few. However, the Hippodrome caught fire and was rebuilt, reducing its 1050 seats to 805 and became primarily a movie theater in 1946. Then, the Hippodrome closed in 1967, and reopened becoming a church in 1970. The Hippodrome did briefly reopen in 1982, but it served little purpose to the city of Richmond and was shut down. In 2009, the city of Richmond created renovation plans for the reopening of the Hippodrome. The plan was a $12 million renovation project that turned the Hippodrome back to its former live entertainment facility. The Hippodrome reopened in 2011.
Area History: Before Jackson Ward was named in 1871, it was home to many Italian, German, and Jewish residents who built their European-style homes. After the Civil War was over, many African Americans moved into this area because of economic opportunity and to flee from the deep south. The neighborhoods they created thrived through local business establishments like barbershops, companies, banks, and entertainment. Located in the heart of Jackson Ward, the famous 2nd Street (known as the Deuce) was home to the thriving entertainment scene in Richmond, as it hosted many famed stars such a Bill Bojangles, Ella Fitzgerald, and more. However, in the 1950's, the Jackson Ward community was threatened with plans to create a highway and low-income based housing. This plan affected the Jackson Ward community as it displaced many homeowners. Today there are 40 blocks left of Jackson Ward, making it the largest National Historic Landmark associated with African Americans.
What about the site has changed?: The site from the exterior look the same with the addition of the new sign; however, the interior of the Hippodrome has changed completely as it is more advanced than ever, featuring a brand new stage, lighting, and an elegant design that looks high class with its light fixtures and furniture.
What about the surroundings has changed?: Besides Rev. Lee Taylor's house that has been constructed into the adjoining restaurant five26, the surroundings of the Hippodrome is fairly the same however many of the buildings are abandoned now.
Reflection: I was so pleased to choose this site because it is the venue for Maggie Walker's prom, which makes it even more exciting. I think the Hippodrome is absolutely amazing and rich in history. I believe it is wonderful that the city of Richmond decided to reopen this fantastic center for entertainment. I have been to the Hippodrome twice, once with Peer Mentors at Maggie Walker and the other time for Kwanzaa. I love the Hippodrome;s elegance, and there is a vibe there that is astonishing. I believe it is partially because you know that so many accomplished, brilliant people have walked through the same doors as you. The feeling is simply invigorating. So many influential people in the African American community once celebrated in the same venue, and I am also admire the fact that Maggie Walker decided to choose this venue for prom. I personally believe it is a great choice for a school whose focuses on history, and who is named after a well accomplished woman who attended many functions at the Hippodrome.
Sources:
The Hippodrome. The Hippodrome Theatre. Accessed February 20, 2014.
http://www.hippodromerichmond.com/about/history/.
http://www.jacksonward.com/.
Jones, Will. "Hippodrome Renovation set for $600,000 Boost." Richmond Times
Dispatch. Last modified November 2, 2009. Accessed March 9, 2014.
Author: Aliyah Craddock
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