African-American History in Southwest
The Southwest Waterfront's history is closely tied to African-American history. Leading up to the Civil War, many people of color - those still enslaved as well as some freed individuals - lived and worked here, and some helped build the original wharves. Later, the area's affordable housing and labor opportunities attracted thousands of newly freed slaves, and a close-knit community with many rich and storied traditions developed along the waterfront neighborhood. https://www.wharfdc.com/