Beaver Slide facts for kids
Beaver Slide was a neighborhood in Atlanta, Georgia, that existed for many years, starting as early as 1882. It was located near Atlanta University. This area was known for having difficult living conditions. In 1937, Beaver Slide was replaced by a new housing project called University Homes. University Homes itself was later taken down between 2008 and 2009.
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What Was Beaver Slide?
Beaver Slide was a community where many African American families lived. It was a crowded area with homes that often lacked good facilities. People faced many challenges living there. The neighborhood was recognized as early as 1882, showing it had been a part of Atlanta's history for a long time.
How Did Beaver Slide Get Its Name?
The name "Beaver Slide" has an interesting story. Charles Forrest Palmer, who helped plan the new housing that replaced the area, wrote about it. He said the name came from James Beavers, who was the Atlanta Chief of Police from 1911 to 1915. One day, Chief Beavers was looking at the neighborhood from a hill. He supposedly lost his balance and slid down into the area. Because of this, people started calling it "Beavers' Slide," which later became "Beaver Slide."
Life in Beaver Slide
Life in Beaver Slide was often tough for its residents. The neighborhood faced many problems due to its poor conditions. Because of these challenges, city leaders and university officials decided to act. In 1925, they started a project to improve the area. This effort aimed to make the neighborhood safer and better for the people living there.
Music and Memories
Even with its challenges, Beaver Slide was remembered in music. A song called "Beaver Slide Rag" was released in 1927. It was performed by Peg Leg Howell And His Gang. This song helped to keep the memory of the Beaver Slide neighborhood alive through music.
What Replaced Beaver Slide?
Eventually, the entire Beaver Slide neighborhood was cleared away. This was done to make room for a new and modern housing project. This new project was called University Homes. It was designed by an architect named William Augustus Edwards. University Homes officially opened its doors in 1938, providing new homes for many families.
The Future of the Land
University Homes served the community for many years. However, it was also taken down between 2008 and 2009. As of January 2012, there had been no final decision about what would be built on that land next. The area continues to be a part of Atlanta's changing landscape.
