WHO ARE THE BRONZEVILLE BABIES
“We are Story Tellers”
The Bronzeville Babies tells stories about the people, places and culture of African Americans who migrated to Chicago during the Great Migration (1916-1970). These soft-sculpt art dolls are hand crafted and wears clothing typical of the time. There are eight Bronzeville Babies caricatures, each with their own unique dreams and stories about life in Chicago. Their stories make you smile and reflect about a brave and creative people of the past. Their stories can serve as a model for overcoming challenges and potential for contemporary life.
Lisa Dee is a housekeeper by day and a performing artist by night at the local Club DeLisa, a popular night spot during the 1940’s.
Eddie Travels is a skilled professional and family man who has a prestigious job working as a Pullman Porter.
Barbara Ann is called “Dream Girl” because she is always dreaming about who she wants to become when she grows up. She lives in the historic Aldine Square building complex.
Leonard Styles is a local businessman who owns a barber shop and loves to dress in fashionably tailored clothing. He is very influential in the Bronzeville Neighborhood.
Bill Preston is very politically actine during the 1970’s and was a member of the Black Panther movement. Eventually he becomes a minister serving the needs of those less fortunate.
Malaika is a college student during the 1970’s and wears African inspired clot6hng to pay homage to her African heritage.
JT Tayor is the ‘everyday working man’. He was a gardener for the Chicago Park District. He is the last wave of the Great Migration blacks moving from the south to northern cities like Chicago in the 1970’s.
Alice Suell, ‘the church lady’ concentrates on making better opportunities for her four sons. She is also very active in her church, Olivet Baptist
