Welcome to “Bronzeville Babies” a dynamic platform dedicated to celebrating, preserving and sharing the rich heritage, stories and contributions of African Americans who lived in the Bronzeville community during Chicago’s Great Migration era – 1916-2016. Our mission is to provide an immersive experience that educates, empowers, and enlightens individuals about the profound impact of African Americans on society, culture, and progress.
We hope to make you smile when you see the Bronzeville Babies art dolls. At “Bronzeville Babies,” we envision a world where the remarkable achievements and resilience of African Americans are universally recognized and appreciated. Through education, dialogue, and engagement, we strive to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and inspire unity among diverse communities.
Aldine Square was erected in 1874 and was deemed an exclusive enclave with 42 homes surrounded by a park and a beautiful man-made pond with a bridge in the center
“A people without knowledge of their past, is like a tree without roots.”Black nationalist, Marcus Garvey (1887-1940), promoted political and social movements for people of African descent.
“Hi! My name is Eddie Travels“, and I am a Bronzeville Baby.My family is from a small town in Texas where I was born in 1920
HI! My name is Barbara Ann, and I am a Bronzeville Baby!”“I am 8 years old and was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1930. My parents, seven siblings, aunts, uncles, and grandmother all live in the same apartment complex, Aldine Square.
Commencing in 1916, the Great Migration saw a significant influx of Black residents into Chicago, with their numbers surpassing 100,000 by 1920. To reshape the community’s identity away from derogatory labels, James J. Gentry, an editor working with Anthony Overton, advocated for the term “Bronzeville.” This choice not only encapsulated the neighborhood’s inhabitants but also symbolized their resistance and collective determination to assert their identity on their own authentic terms.
Design t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel featuring empowering slogans, quotes, or artwork related to African American history and culture.
Curate a selection of books, posters, and educational materials that highlight African American history, leaders, and achievements.
Collaborate with artists to create and sell prints, posters, and artworks that celebrate the diversity and richness of African American culture.
Offer accessories like pins, keychains, and bracelets featuring iconic symbols or quotes that represent the essence of African American history.
Aldine Square was erected in 1874 and was deemed an exclusive enclave with 42 homes surrounded by a park and a beautiful man-made pond with a bridge in the center. It was quoted as being “the most beautiful and charming of all places of residence in the city.His uniform represented a source of pride for his family and the community.
“A people without knowledge of their past, is like a tree without roots.” Black nationalist, Marcus Garvey (1887-1940), promoted political and social movements for people of African descent. His approach and leadership was insightful as well as controversial. However, his philosophy supported black identity and black ancestry.
“Hi! My name is Eddie Travels“, and I am a Bronzeville Baby My family is from a small town in Texas where I was born in 1920. My father moved to the Bronzeville community in Chicago in 1938. My mom, sister and I followed shortly after. I am now a Pullman Porter. My family is very proud of me. My story is about growing up to be a symbol of success in my community.His uniform represented a source of pride for his family and the community.
HI! My name is Barbara Ann, and I am a Bronzeville Baby!” “I am 8 years old and was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1930. My parents, seven siblings, aunts, uncles, and grandmother all live in the same apartment complex, Aldine Square. A neat block of Greystone buildings with a pond and bridge as our front yard.