INDIANAPOLIS — 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 on Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Central Library, 40 E. St. Clair.
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.
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.