Oral history interview with Marguerite and James Johnson

Marguerite Butler Johnson, an African American woman born on February 23, 1913, and her husband, James Johnson, an African American man born on November 16, 1912, discuss being born and raised in Anacostia. They talk about the different families they grew up with, attending church every Sunday, and the various stores they shopped at. The Johnsons speak about segregation in the neighborhood, such as Anacostia High school not allowing African American students. They also touch on how there was little crime in the neighborhood and little need for police officers until the 1950s. The Johnsons describe important landmarks in Anacostia, including Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the German Orphan Home, Green Willow Park, Dr. Shipley's Pharmacy, and the Anacostia Bank. They recall the Bonus Marches as well as the Hoover and Roosevelt administastions. They end the interview naming prominent community members, including John Williams, Ella Pearis, James Banks, and James Smoot. Marguerite and James Johnson were interviewed by Donna Coates on October 9, 1975. Digital audio files include white noise and static; interviewee can be heard clearly for the most part.