From the Newsroom: The Columbus Dispatch
Black-owned businesses in Driving Park
Playlist by From the Newsroom: The Columbus DispatchBlack entrepreneurs thrived in Driving Park from the 1960s through the early 2000s. We mapped 16 former businesses and five still hanging on today.Follow the podcast:
17 clip(s) in playlist
Willis Beauty Supply Co
James and Sherman Willis have operated for over 50 years in the volatile beauty supply industry. Address: 1499 E. Livingston Ave.
01:21Clean
White's Camera Shop
Wayne White sold cameras and provided repair services in Driving Park in the present-day Africentric Personal Development Shop building, and relocated Downtown in 1976. Address: 1409 E Livingston Ave.
00:52Clean
Ujamaa Bookstore
Operating one of few Black bookstores in the state, Mustafaa Shabazz’s mission is to use literacy to build strong families in the Black community. Address: 1499 E. Livingston Ave.
01:04Clean
The Record Emporium
In the early 1980s, Donna Terry booked Prince, The Time and Vanity 6 at her record shop, causing a major traffic jam on East Livingston Avenue. Address: 1485 E Livingston Ave.
00:45Clean
Talib's Shoes & Accessories
The clothes and in-store soundtrack at Talib’s will take you back to 1979, but the store has remained a popular destination for over 40 years. Address: 1035 E. Livingston Ave.
00:38Clean
Money Mike’s Records & Tapes
Referred to as a “pioneer” and friendly person, Money Mike contributed to the legacy of popular music stores in Driving Park. Address: 1064 E Livingston Ave.
00:26Clean
Mean Mug Records
Mario Gibbs, Ryan “Hollywood” Hood and Rodriccos “Rowdy Rod” Williams opened the shop in 2000 at the original location of Resch’s Bakery, and filmed music videos with Juvenile and Lil Wayne in the neighborhood. Address: 1029 E Livingston Ave.
00:49Clean
McKoy Dental Center Inc.
A part-time pastor known for encouraging young patients, Dr. Victor McKoy operated his business in Driving Park before moving to King-Lincoln/Bronzeville. Address: 1093 E. Livingston Ave.
03:00Clean
H. Johnson's BBQ
Herbie Johnson’s beloved, 45-year institution was known for its ice cream, ribs, Monster Burgers and Monster Chops. Address: 1119 Lockbourne Rd.
01:58Clean
Granny’s Child Care Center
Former Ohio State basketball player and NBA veteran Granville Waiters opened the daycare in Driving Park, where he was a friendly presence. Address: 1500 E Livingston Ave.
00:33Clean