Morton Theater Inquiry

About the inquiry

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.

Compelling Question

How Can One Corner Shape History?

Staging Question

Discuss why a section of a city might be viewed as historically significant.

Supporting Question

Why is the Hot Corner considered an historical district?

Formative Tasks

Create a timeline by sorting historical events.

Sources

Source 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

Supporting Question

Who performed at the Morton Theatre and who had offices in the Morton Building?

Formative Tasks

Make a list of the artists who performed and individuals who had offices in the Morton building.

Sources

Source 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

Supporting Question

What individuals and groups are involved in preserving and celebrating the Hot Corner’s legacy today?

Formative Tasks

Make a list of the ways the Hot Corner’s legacy is being preserved and celebrated today.

Sources

Source 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.

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