Discover the Beck Cultural Corridor
Welcome to the Beck Cultural Corridor, an immersive journey connecting Knoxville’s past, present, and future. Here, you’ll uncover the powerful legacy of Knoxville’s African American community, once obscured by Urban Renewal. Today, we’re reclaiming and reviving this vital history through interactive storytelling, preserving the memories of people, places, and moments that shaped our community.
Explore historical landmarks digitally restored to their rightful places on Knoxville’s map, rediscover vibrant neighborhoods, Black owned businesses and establishments, and inspirational individuals who contributed significantly to our city’s heritage. Engage with history through an innovative blend of technology and tradition, experiencing firsthand how yesterday’s stories continue to influence tomorrow’s dreams.
Step into the Beck Cultural Corridor and witness a rich tapestry of resilience, creativity, and triumph. Welcome to a living history—welcome to the Beck Cultural Corridor.
Begin Your Journey
How to Explore the Corridor
Discover the Beck Cultural Corridor at your own pace. Using your mobile device, you can explore historical landmarks, uncover hidden stories, and see Knoxville’s African American history come to life. Follow the steps below to navigate the Corridor and connect with the rich legacy of our community.
The Trail
The Beck Cultural Corridor is a rapidly growing and developing historical trail highlighting sites of significant historical importance in the area. This trail offers a rich narrative that connects past events to contemporary culture, making it a journey through history and a celebration of community heritage.
As the Beck Cultural Corridor continues to grow and evolve, educating the public about the region's history is vital while fostering a sense of community and belonging. By connecting the past with the present, the trail preserves historical narratives and encourages dialogue and collaboration among diverse cultural groups. This focus on inclusivity and representation transforms the trail into a living testament to the community's shared journey.
Destination: Green School
Established in 1909, Green School was built to educate young Black children in Knoxville and named in honor of prominent physician Dr. Henry Morgan Green. Originally built on Payne Avenue, the school still educates elementary aged children in the East Knoxville community at 801 Lula Powell Drive.
Destination: The Delaney Family's Original Home
Discover the original home of the Delaney family on Vine Avenue and how this historic site was lost to Urban Renewal.
Destination: Nikki Giovanni & Mulvaney Street
Explore the legacy of renowned poet and activist Nikki Giovanni, whose Knoxville roots trace back to Mulvaney Street. Discover how this neighborhood influenced Giovanni's powerful voice, and learn about the historical significance of Mulvaney Street within Knoxville's vibrant Black community.
Destination: Cal Johnson & Cal Johnson Recreation Center
Discover the story of Cal Johnson, his life and lasting influence, including the Cal Johnson Recreation Center that bears his name and honors his impact on the community.
Destination: Gem Theatre
Step into the story of the Gem Theatre, once a lively entertainment hub for Knoxville’s African American community. Discover how this beloved venue brought people together through music, film, and culture.
Destination: The Smokies, Covenant Health Park, and the History of Black Baseball in Knoxville
Explore the history of Black baseball in Knoxville and its connection with Covenant Health Park, home of the Tennessee Smokies Baseball Team.
Destination: Carnegie Library
Learn about the history of Carnegie Library, Knoxville's first public library for Black people in the city and the ways in which it served the community. The library is part of the legacy of Charles W. Cansler who was instrumental in securing the funding needed for its establishment.
Destination: Jarnigan & Sons Mortuary
Explore Jarnigan & Sons Mortuary, one of Knoxville's longest-standing Black-owned businesses, continuing to serve and support the community since 1886.
Destination: Heiskell School
Learn about Heiskell School established in 1897 at 903 Campbell Street. Heiskell School was a cornerstone educational institution for Knoxville's Black community in The Bottom and a place of learning, growth, and memories before its loss to Urban Renewal.
Destination: Mount Calvary Baptist Church
Learn more about Mount Calvary Baptist Church and its longstanding legacy here in Knoxville. Once located at the former loaction of 911 East Jackson Avenue, the Church was established in 1913, as an outgrowth of "Old Corinthian."
History Just A Scan Away
At each destination stop along the Beck Cultural Corridor, visitors will find QR codes placed at key locations. Scanning these QR codes with a mobile device will direct visitors to a dedicated landing page featuring historical information, photographs, and archival materials related to that specific site. These landing pages will provide deeper context about the site’s history, the people connected to it, and its significance within Knoxville’s Black community. This interactive experience allows visitors to engage with the local history and culture in a meaningful and accessible way.
With Gratitude
Our Partners and Supports
This project wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support and collaboration of our partners and sponsors. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to preserving and sharing the rich history of Knoxville’s Black community.
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