Oral History Interview with (Dr.) Charles Qualls

Dr. Charles Qualls, an African American man born in 1912, discusses his memories of Anacostia and what the neighborhood was like during his younger years. He speaks on a variety of subjects, such as geographical boundaries, recreation, the ethnic and racial makeup of the community, and lower-income housing. He also talks about typical occupations for African American residents, including clerks and messengers; about how segregation and integration changed Anacostia; and about what politics looked like in the area. Dr. Qualls recalls his efforts to improve the neighborhood, such as installing flood lights, raising money for the Cafritz Hospital, and restoring the Frederick Douglass Home while he was chairperson of the Coordinating Committee of Anacostia Vicinity. He concludes the interview by talking about current issues in the neighborhood with sanitation, transportation, and housing. Dr. Charles Qualls was interviewed on November 23, 1970 by an unnamed volunteer or staff member at Anacostia Neighborhood Museum (now the Anacostia Community Museum). Digital audio files include white noise and static; interviewee can be heard clearly for most parts.