Delilah Jackson facts for kids

Delilah Jackson (born around 1929, died January 12, 2013) was a special kind of historian. She focused on collecting the amazing stories and history of Black entertainers in Harlem, a famous neighborhood in New York City.

About Delilah Jackson

Delilah Jackson grew up in Harlem, very close to the famous Apollo Theater. She went to school at P.S. 157.

Collecting History

In 1975, Delilah Jackson started collecting the history of Harlem's culture and its Black entertainers. She began by recording oral histories. These are like interviews where people share their memories and stories. She talked to many women who used to be chorus girls at the Cotton Club, a famous nightclub.

Later that same year, she started the Black Patti Project. This project created special programs for entertainers who were living in nursing homes. The project also helped collect more oral histories from Black artists. Delilah Jackson didn't just collect history; she became friends with many of the artists. She would visit them in nursing homes as they got older.

Her collection helped people understand the importance of these artists and their work. Over time, she gathered more than 1,000 items. These items included recordings, photos, and other things that showed the work of Black entertainers in Harlem.

Sharing Her Knowledge

In 1997, Delilah Jackson helped create a special show at the Smithsonian. It was called "Paris, the Jazz Age." She also gave talks about Harlem entertainers at many places. These included Columbia University, the New School, and the Schomburg Center.

Awards and Recognition

Delilah Jackson received important awards for her work. In 2001, she won the Flo-Bert Lifetime Achievement Award. This award came from the New York Committee to Celebrate Tap Dance Day. In 2005, she also received the Tap Preservation Award. This award was given by the American Tap Dance Foundation.

Delilah Jackson passed away at her home on January 12, 2013.