This inquiry leads students through an investigation of the Jefferson Street business district in Nashville, Tennessee. Jefferson Street has been considered, “a lab for some of the most important historical, social and cultural events in the U.S. South” (Facing north: Jefferson street, Nashville). Dave Paulson described the district as being “Nashville’s prime thoroughfare for Black culture and commerce” (read more from Paulson here).
How Can One Street Shape History?
Why is Jefferson Street considered an historical district?
Formative TasksList some of the ways Jefferson Street defined the city.
SourcesSource A: Overview of Jefferson Street and the NPT documentary Facing North: Jefferson Street Nashville<br /> Source B: Video clips of the documentary– Facing North, Jefferson Street Nashville <br /> Source C: Historical Marker Database
Who performed at the clubs on Jefferson Street?
Formative TasksWrite a paragraph about who performed at the clubs on Jefferson Street.
SourcesSource A: Travel Channel video highlighting Jefferson Street Sound <br /> Source B: The Tennessean article on Jefferson street’s musical legacy<br /> Source C: Mr. Lorenzo Washington’s graphic of music venues and artists<br /> Source D: SLaMLab website designed by Vanderbilt University
What individuals and groups are involved in preserving and celebrating Jefferson Street’s legacy today?
Formative TasksCreate a T-chart listing the individuals and groups preserving and celebrating Jefferson Street’s legacy, as well as their reasons for doing this work.
SourcesSource A: News Channel 5 video about the Jefferson Street Historical Society<br /> Source B: Video about current artists and murals on Jefferson Street <br /> Source C: Article and video about Vanderbilt University’s partnership with Mr. Lorenzo Washington<br /> Source D: Article and video about Mr. Kossie Gardner Sr.
Argument: How Can One Street Shape History? Construct an argument (e.g., detailed outline, poster, essay) that addresses the compelling question using specific claims and relevant evidence from the sources.
Extension: Discuss how the construction of the interstate (I-40) affected the residents of Jefferson Street.
Understand: Learn more about the musical legacy of Jefferson Street by visiting the Jefferson Street Sound Museum.
Assess: Create a plan to share its history at your school.
Act:
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