Oral History Interview with Rosalind Wheeler Styles and Francis Powell Wheeler

Rosalind Wheeler Styles and Francis Powell Wheeler spoke in detail, and with anecdotes, about their family history and family gatherings; Anacostia history; and recreational opportunities for children and families, and the businesses in Anacostia. They talked about the ethnic and racial makeup of Anacostia; how buildings, development, and police and community relations changed in Anacostia; specific activism and community work they have been involved in; and experiences of discrimination, including the lack of swimming pool for African Americans. Styles and Wheeler described how Anacostia changed with the influx of people from southwest Washington, D.C. They also talked about their future vision for Anacostia, and the importance of capturing and preserving Anacostia history with the redevelopment.

Interview created in conjunction with the Anacostia Community Museum's 40th Anniversary Oral History Project and the exhibition, 'East of the River: Continuity and Change.' Dated 20070504