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Discovering the Legacy of San Juan Hill: An Oral History

Discovering the Legacy of San Juan Hill: An Oral History

The Legacy of San Juan Hill: An Oral History

Thelonious Monk fans, get ready to dive into the rich history of one of New York City's most iconic neighborhoods. Lincoln Center has put together a series of videos showcasing the memories, experiences, and opinions of the residents and advocates of San Juan Hill. These oral histories provide a unique window into the community, its musical legacy, and the struggles it faced in the 20th century.

T.S. Monk, son of Thelonious Monk and former resident of San Juan Hill, is among the featured speakers in these videos. He shares his memories of the neighborhood, its location on the Upper West Side, and the people who lived there. Other speakers include Willie Jones, a musician and drummer, Nina Garland, a choreographer and dance educator, and Shirley Zaiman, a political advocate.

In these videos, you'll learn about the historical and cultural significance of San Juan Hill, its churches and community ties, its musical icons, and the segregation and violence the neighborhood faced. You'll also hear about the Broadway legacy of Black theatrical productions and notable performers, and the founding of the Young Sounds arts program.

So, sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and immerse yourself in the rich history of San Juan Hill. To learn more, be sure to check out the videos and the rest of the content on Lincoln Center's website. And stay tuned for more exciting updates!