Cleveland Black History - The First Black Settler

Have you ever wondered who was the first black man to settle in the city of Cleveland? Me neither, but it's very interesting nonetheless. The first black settler to Cleveland is known as George A. Peake. He was a native of Maryland who came here with his wife and two sons in 1809. Now make no mistake in assuming these were poor blacks in search of three acres and a mule. The Peakes were pretty well off. In fact, Mr. Peake bought 103 acres in Rockport, MD. And Mrs. Peake? She had her own, too. She had half a bushel of silver dollars, a large sum at the time.
Not only is Mr. Peake credited with settling in Cleveland, he was also an inventor. Mr. Peake invented a hand mill, which made him a favorite neighbor to many. Mr. Peake passed away in 1827. It is unknown where his burial place is.

Info obtained from the CWRU Encyclopedia of Cleveland History website.


by Ciara

Black History Month

Happy Black History Month!! Do people say that? Who cares, I'm saying it! Back to black, though. Cleveland is a city rich in cultural history, and the remnants of such are still quite evident today. So many extraordinary people have come out of the city and excelled in many areas. Each week we'll bring you one of those people to encourage and inspire you to be extraordinary, too.

Today, Dollhouse will take a look at literary great, Langston Hughes. Everyone knows who he is and why he's great. But did you know Hughes spent a part of his childhood in the city? Before ruling the renaissance in Harlem Hughes ran Cleveland! Born in 1902, Hughes later graduated from Central High School. The Karamu House also credits the playwright with being very instrumental in its beginnings. In fact, "Black Nativity," a Hughes play,is performed every single year.

Take time out this week to explore some of Hughes' work.

I, Too, Sing America

by Langston Hughes

I, too, sing America.
I am the darker brother.

They send me to eat in the kitchen

When company comes,

But I laugh,

And eat well,

And grow strong.

Tomorrow,

I'll be at the table

When company comes.

Nobody'll dare

Say to me,

"Eat in the kitchen,"

Then.

Besides,

They'll see how beautiful I am

And be ashamed--

I, too, am America.


by Ciara