Join the DC History Center at the Francis A. Gregory Library for the kickoff of our Neighborhood History Project, in partnership with the DC Public Library.

On the southeastern boundary of Washington, DC in Ward 7 lies Hillcrest—a neighborhood with a residential feel, often lacking distinction from Anacostia neighborhood. But residents like those in the Hillcrest Community Association want other Washingtonians to know that neighborhoods east of the river have their own look and feel, separate from each other, with their own history and culture. Nicknamed the “Silver Coast,” the neighborhood is known for being home to Black professionals and families seeking quieter city living, like former Mayor and Councilmember Vincent Gray.

Join the DC History Center at the Francis A. Gregory Library in Hillcrest on May 31 to learn the history of the neighborhood, celebrate its culture, and connect with neighbors over snacks, music, and activities for all ages. Drop by between 10:30 am and 2:30 pm to learn something new about the neighborhood or share what you know! The schedule will be updated as activities are finalized.

SCHEDULE
10:30 am | Activities begin
11:45 am | Enjoy lunch and cookies baked from a historic recipe
12:00 pm | East of the River Steelband
1:30 pm | Friends of the Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library
2:30 pm | Activities end

Ongoing activities:

Neighborhood scavenger hunt
Neighborhood bingo
Collage: historic neighborhood images
Snacks

Registration for this event is FREE for all attendees, and walk-ins are encouraged. If you require accommodation for a disability, email us at programs@dchistory.org. Please give us two weeks' notice to best meet your needs. We are committed to making events accessible for all participants. There will be photo and video taken at this event.

NEIGHBORHOOD HISTORY PROJECT
The DC History Center introduces its Neighborhood History Project Series which aims to study and document the history of often overlooked DC neighborhoods. Our current focus is on Woodridge (Ward 5) and Hillcrest (Ward 7). This series includes archival research, supported by community engagement and dialogue to not only research this history, but encourage connection and programming for current residents.

Hillcrest neighborhood shops on the 2800 block of Alabama Ave SE, east of Naylor Road (Emil A. Press slide collection, PR 1040B)

Hillcrest neighborhood shops on the 2800 block of Alabama Ave SE, east of Naylor Road (Emil A. Press slide collection, PR 1040B)

Contact the host of Hillcrest Neighborhood Celebration