Oral History Interview with William and Daisy Dyson

William Dyson, an African American man born around 1899, and his wife, Daisy Dyson, an African American woman born 1903, talk about what life was like after moving to Anacostia in 1941. They discuss attending local public schools, such as Armstrong High School, and the geographic boundaries of the neighborhood and its communities (Congress Heights, Uniontown, and Hillsdale-Barry Farm), including the Anacostia River and Nicholas Street. They describe what recreation was popular (going to the beach, picnicking, and playing at parks) as well as which denominations people followed. They speak about how close knit the community and families were; racial tension and segregation in Anacostia; the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People; and about the police force. The Dysons recall important neighborhood landmarks, such as Gallinger Hospital, Frederick Douglass Home and Lincoln Park. Other topics of discussion include sanitation, transportation, and newspapers. William and Daisy Dyson were interviewed by John Bradshaw on January 6, 1971. Digital audio files include white noise and static; interviewee can be heard clearly for some parts.