Oral History Interview with Arthur Morrisett

Arthur Morrisett, a white man born around 1914, discusses his memories of Anacostia and the changes in the community since he moved there in 1949. The first major change he talks about was the construction of public housing in Southeast Washington D.C. He describes the inequality in housing between white and African American families and how the younger generation has the education to improve Anacostia's quality of life. Banking is another issue he discusses, explaining how mainstream banks let down Anacostia because of its strict policies about race and income requirements. Morrisett notes the different ways in which integration changed race relations in the neighborhood. Morrisett talks about historic landmarks in the area, such as the German Orphan Asylum and the Frederick Douglass House. He also describes how he formed the Committee of Concern, whose object was to communicate between different races in the community. He includes information about Dr. Charles Qualls' involvement in the committee and the Anacostia Business and Professional Men's Association. Other community leaders mentioned are Carrie Davis and Ledru Koontz. Arthur Morrisett was interviewed by John Bradshaw on November 25, 1970. Digital audio files include white noise and static; interviewee can be heard clearly for most parts.