Oral history interview with George Trivers

George Trivers, an African American man born on April 24, 1907, discusses growing up in Anacostia from the age of five. Trivers speaks about various landmarks and notable community members as well as his education and family life in Anacostia. He talks about how segregation affected the neighborhood, particularly with schools and other public spaces, such as libraries and playgrounds. He describes the overcrowding and poor housing plans that affected Anacostia; how families purchased land in Hillsdale; and how investors and taxation impacted the families in the community. He mentions a community hearing that residents attended and presented at to fight back against the neighborhood being called a "slum area" and to address housing issues. Trivers goes on to talk about racial discrimination, such as government identification cards registering African Americans as either "Light Brown" or "Black" and segregated dormitories at universities. He explains more about his time in the Naval Academy, learning about various oaths and ceremonies as well as taking academic classes and physical education. He discusses his higher education, parents, raising three sons with his wife, Meta, and various recreational activities in the neighborhood, including church picnics, picking fruit, and playing football. Trivers also talks about typical family life in Anacostia; about the various occupations he held, including being a bellhop and a WPA program worker; and about the Bonus Marchers, veterans demanding their bonus certificates. George Trivers was interviewed by Wanda Dickens and Donna Coates. Digital audio files include white noise and static; interviewee can be heard clearly for the most part.