Song of The Hill

Song of The Hill is a personal account of a remarkable Black community in Pittsburgh. Drawing from his personal experiences and extensive knowledge of Black history, the author provides a portrait of a racially, ethnically, and culturally integrated community. In the face of a racist Jim Crow culture, Black families created a nurturing environment for their children and a growing middle class economy. In a sense, Song of The Hill is a eulogy for a community devastated by misguided policies of urban renewal. Looking back, the author reflects on how the fight for integration had unintended consequences that contributed to the demise of his beloved community. With self-deprecating humor, affection for neighbors, and love of parents, the author offers a window for understanding a special time and place in our country's history.