A federal grant will help tell the story of “Green Book” sites in Indiana. WNIN’s John Gibson has details:
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources says its Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology has received a $75,000 grant.
What was known as “The Negro Motorist Green Book” was a guidebook for African American travelers published from the 1930s through the 1960s.
The Green Book included information about businesses and services open to Black patrons, initially in Harlem, then nationally and internationally.
At a time when African Americans faced harsh discrimination, the Green Book provided information that was essential for safe travel.
Nearly 200 businesses in Indiana were listed during the years of publication including hotels, motels, gas stations, restaurants, drug stores, dry cleaners, beauty parlors and barbers.
Green Book sites were listed in 20 Indiana cities, including Evansville, Vincennes and French Lick.
The grant will support efforts to research and document remaining Green Book sites.