The Indianapolis Star from Indianapolis, Indiana • Page 65

12 hythm. Reborn. ill .1 l.yl 4 Jtmm, rm 1 W' lr4 X4 i evu fc imnAMMP I 11 As early as the 1 800s, this area was a vibrant social, commercial, residential, spiritual, educational and economic community. It was a bustling Mecca in the Midwest, fueled by skilled artisans, entertainers, professionals and entrepreneurs. Business pioneer Madam C.J.Walker, numerous jazz legends and other significant historical figures all have strong ties to The Avenue.

Many accomplished individuals graduated from the district's sole high school, Crispus Attucks (now a middle school and museum), becoming successful business, civic and social leaders. Indiana Avenue landmarks signify a piece of the area's heritage and lasting legacy and tell the African-American story in Indianapolis. One key landmark, the Madame C.J.Walker Building, was the center of entertainment, business and pride for the city's African-American community from the 1920s to the 1950s. During the mid-50s, the building and its surrounding neighborhood began a gradual decline. The site was seen as the heart of a Downtown neighborhood that had to be revitalized and the community worked to make the dream a reality.

c-ii the nse. Experience Indiana Avenue On the Rise Jazz up your family outings by visiting interesting historic sites, cultural events and museums here on Indiana Avenue. Looking for a distinct cultural pocket rich in African-American history and heritage? Head west in Downtown and discover an area unlike any in the city a place where the city honors sites on the Underground Railroad and a shrinecultural center named after the first American self-made female millionaire Madam C.J.Walker. Welcome to Indiana Avenue, also known as The Avenue, an area that stretches between the Central Canal and White River, encompassing many neighborhoods and IUPUI. Today the district offers a sample of that thriving past and a connection to the city's present and future.

It represents a diagonal gateway to Downtown, IUPUI, the city's life sciences initiative and a collection of major medical campuses. It is also near The Canal White River State Park, offering easy access to other cultural amenities in Downtown. When you step onto The Avenue, you will experience rhythm reborn. www.DiscoYerlndianaAvenue.com.