The Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ Historic Preservation Division (HPD) has released a new historic context statement titled On the Circuit: The Chitlin’ Circuit and Segregated Black Entertainment in Jim Crow Georgia. The report is intended to support the development of a future Chitlin’ Circuit Heritage Trail in Georgia, which will focus on educating the public about African American entertainment during the Jim Crow era.
The project’s first phase involved travel for research and documentation of the Chitlin’ Circuit, as well as creating case studies for potential sites that could be included on the proposed heritage trail. This work led to the publication of On the Circuit. Funding for this year-long project was provided by a grant from Fox Theatre through its Fox Gives program.
Mary W. Joseph, HPD Community Outreach Coordinator, collaborated with New South Associates to develop the report. The research covers several key areas: it defines what constituted the Chitlin’ Circuit, discusses its origins at both national and regional levels, and identifies people and places important to its history and preservation.
A number of sites associated with the circuit across Georgia were selected as case studies. These may serve as locations on the planned heritage trail and offer a model for future additions as the trail expands.
“On the Circuit is a groundbreaking resource to recognize the rich musical heritage and resilience in Georgia,” said Jennifer Flood, DCA’s Historic Preservation Division Director. “We look forward to the report’s impact in supporting a heritage trail to encourage visitors to these important sites.”
Like other historic context reports produced by HPD, On the Circuit is available publicly for use in various history and preservation projects. These resources help individuals and professionals identify and place their properties within broader historical themes.
On the Circuit can be accessed along with other historic context statements on the DCA website, where more information about HPD initiatives and other programs can also be found.
