This inquiry leads students through an investigation of the Hot Corner business district in Athens, Georgia. In the early 1900s, the Hot Corner was one of the most prosperous Black business districts in the South in spite of legalized segregation and Jim Crow laws (Hot Corner). At the core of the district was the Morton Building built in 1910 by Mr. Monroe Bowers “Pink” Morton. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Morton Building housed the offices of many prominent Black professionals, and its theater featured acclaimed performers such as Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Bessie Smith.
Login to add Inquiry to Stack
About the inquiry
Compelling Question
How Can One Corner Shape History?
Staging Question
Discuss why a section of a city might be viewed as historically significant.
1
Supporting QuestionWhy is the Hot Corner considered an historical district?
Formative TasksCreate a timeline by sorting historical events.
SourcesSource A: Georgia Political Review article about the Hot Corner
Source B: Downtown Athens article about the Hot Corner
Source C: The Red & Black article on the history of Black Athens
Source D: Hot Corner audio documentary
2
Supporting QuestionWho performed at the Morton Theatre and who had offices in the Morton Building?
Formative TasksMake a list of the artists who performed and individuals who had offices in the Morton building.
SourcesSource A: Georgia Public Broadcasting video about the empire of Mr. Monroe Bowers “Pink” Morton
Source B: Downtown Athens article about the Morton Building
Source C: The Morton Theatre website
3
Supporting QuestionWhat individuals and groups are involved in preserving and celebrating the Hot Corner’s legacy today?
Formative TasksMake a list of the ways the Hot Corner’s legacy is being preserved and celebrated today.
SourcesSource A: The Red & Black article about the Hot Corner festival
Source B: UGA Russell Library Oral History video about the Hot Corner festival
Source C: The Red & Black article article about the Hot Corner mural
Source D: Online Athens article about the Hot Corner Mural Park
Summative Performance Task
Argument: How Can One Corner 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: Explore a community mapping project that highlights Hot Corner businesses in 1940, 1960, and 1980.
Taking Informed Action
Understand: Learn more about the Hot Corner and the Morton Building by visiting the Morton Theatre.
Assess:
Act: Create a plan to share its history at your school.