Race and Real Estate Conflict and Cooperation in Harlem 1890-1920 – Book Review

When you read the publisher’s description below on Race and Real Estate Conflict and Cooperation in Harlem, 1890-1920 by Kevin McGruder published by Columbia University Press in 2014 it is not apparent that the churches in the Episcopal Diocese of New York (EDNY) were widely involved in the creation of Harlem’s history.   However this fact filled book based on the deep analysis of real estate transactions during this period provides information on the role, existing and closed, churches within EDNY had in the creation of Harlem.   The Index and Commentary section provides a brief description of the references to five Episcopal churches in Harlem. Three of the five churches still exist in the location referenced in the book: St. Andrews’, St. Mary’s and St. Philip’s.  St. Luke’s congregation is combined with St.  Martin’s and no longer worship in the building on Convent Avenue.  The Church of the Redeemer closed in 1914.   The book’s notes provide detail references to newspaper articles and vestry notes.

Publisher’s Description (IBSN -978-0-231-16914-1 hardcover, IBSN-978-0-231-1615-8 paperback, IBSN 978-0-231-53925-8 e-book)

“Through the lens of real estate transactions from 1890 to 1920, Kevin McGruder offers an innovative perspective on Harlem’s history and reveals the complex interactions between whites and African Americans at a critical time of migration and development. During these decades Harlem saw a dramatic increase in its African American population, and although most histories speak only of the white residents who met these newcomers with hostility, this book uncovers a range of reactions.

Although some white Harlem residents used racially restrictive real estate practices to inhibit the influx of African Americans into the neighborhood, others believed African Americans had a right to settle in a place they could afford and helped facilitate sales. These years saw Harlem change not into a “ghetto,” as many histories portray, but into a community that became a symbol of the possibilities and challenges black populations faced across the nation.

This book also introduces alternative reasons behind African Americans’ migration to Harlem, showing that they came not to escape poverty but to establish a lasting community. Owning real estate was an essential part of this plan, along with building churches, erecting youth-serving facilities, and gaining power in public office. In providing a fuller, more nuanced history of Harlem, McGruder adds greater depth in understanding its development and identity as both an African American and a biracial community.”

To see the pages references to the Episcopal churches  refer to the “Book review Race and Real Estate Conflict and Cooperation in Harlem 1890-1920 Index to Episcopal Churchs” pdf

(February , 2019)