Ashview Heights
Located in west of Atlanta, Ashview Heights is a historic neighborhood with a rich history of being one of the first planned African-American middle-class communities in Atlanta. It is also notable for being a former streetcar neighborhood and home to Atlanta's first African American high school, Booker T. Washington High School. Despite experiencing long-term divestment that has led to issues of blight and neglect, the community is still thriving with its urban farms, beautiful parks, and a culture of familiarity. The residents of Ashview Heights are committed to preserving the neighborhood's legacy and its original intention to house and support Black folks. With a focus on bringing unity to the community, neighbors know each other and shop at local retailers, while also watching after each other's homes and enjoying sitting on their front porches.
Past
Ashview Heights has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the late nineteenth century. The land that now makes up Ashview Heights was once home to Native Americans, known as the Creek Indians, until they were violently and forcibly removed. In the early 1830s, the area was settled by new residents, including Charner Humphries, who established a tavern called White Hall on present-day Whitehall Street in the nearby West End community. This street became one of the most remembered landmarks of the area's history.
With the incorporation of the City of Atlanta and its reputation as the Terminus of the South, Ashview Heights became one of the city's first streetcar neighborhoods in the late nineteenth century. Despite facing common urban issues such as blight and delinquency, the community has always maintained the spirit of its history. In 1979, an underground MARTA Rapid Rail station was opened on historic Ashby Street, near the northern border of Ashview Heights.
The neighborhood is also home to the faculty of the local schools and colleges, and many Black firsts, including the first Black doctor who lived off of Lowery, the first Black model allowed to wear Tiffany Jewelry for Sacks Fifth Avenue who lived off of Palmetto, and Spike Lee, who grew up in the neighborhood with his grandmother on Palmetto and could often be seen walking down the street. The area has even produced some of the first Black major developers.
Despite its challenges, Ashview Heights continues to be a community that embraces its history and culture, with the essence of the original native settlers engrained in its identity.
Present
Present-day Ashview Heights is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood. The community has a mix of long-term residents and new homeowners who are attracted to its rich history, beautiful homes, and convenient location. In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on revitalizing the neighborhood and improving the quality of life for its residents.
One positive change happening in the neighborhood is the development of new affordable housing options. The city of Atlanta and local community organizations have invested in programs that help residents purchase and renovate homes, making it easier for working-class families to stay in the area. In addition, there are several community gardens and green spaces that have been created to promote healthy living and community engagement.
The neighborhood also has easy access to public transportation, making it easy for residents to travel to other parts of the city.
Future
Ashview Heights in Atlanta is experiencing a revitalization, with redevelopments of homes and lands, the extension of the Beltline, and efforts to combat blight and neglect. These improvements aim to promote economic growth and make the area safer and more livable for residents. The Beltline project and other nearby developments are making the neighborhood more attractive, drawing in new residents and businesses.
