BU Professor’s Decades-Long Roxbury History Project

For over 25 years, Leland Clarke, a professor at Boston University’s College of Fine Arts, has been meticulously collecting historical artifacts that document the rich history of Roxbury, Massachusetts, the neighborhood where he grew up. Clarke hopes to build his extensive collection publicly accessible, preserving a vital record of the community’s past.

The Accidental Archivist

Clarke’s journey into Roxbury’s history began in 2000, following the death of his father. While sorting through his father’s belongings, he discovered a scrapbook filled with newspaper clippings, photographs and church programs. This collection offered a glimpse into the Roxbury of his childhood, sparking a lifelong pursuit of uncovering the neighborhood’s hidden stories. [BU Today]

Uncovering a Forgotten Past

Growing up, Clarke had limited awareness of Roxbury’s significant Black cultural history. He recalls a diverse neighborhood where German, Italian, and Swedish were commonly spoken, but was unaware of figures like Malcolm X having spent his teenage years nearby. The initial discovery of a 1903 flyer announcing a speech by Booker T. Washington at the Columbus Avenue African Methodist Episcopal Church ignited his curiosity. [BU Today]

The Boston Riot of 1903

Further research revealed that Washington’s appearance was the catalyst for the Boston Riot of 1903. The event involved a clash between supporters of Booker T. Washington and William Monroe Trotter, founder of the Boston Guardian newspaper, who held differing views on integration. [BU Today], [WCVB]

A Growing Collection

Inspired by a childhood dream of being an archaeologist, Clarke began actively seeking out artifacts of Roxbury’s past. He frequented online auctions, yard sales, and used bookstores, and often received donations from community members who learned of his project. Over time, his collection grew to approximately 1,800 pieces of ephemera. [BU Today]

Focus on Local Churches

Clarke’s research has particularly focused on the role of local churches in Roxbury’s history. He notes their importance as community hubs and centers of cultural life. One church he researched features a pastor who is part of a lineage spanning over a century, and also houses a rare, inscribed Paul Revere bell. [WCVB]

Leland Clarke’s Background

Leland Clarke (Wheelock’75) is currently a Professor of the Practice in the School of Music at Boston University’s College of Fine Arts. Prior to joining BU, he served for 31 years as a Professor of Education and Music at Wheelock College, holding various committee and board positions, including chairing the Arts Department. [Boston University]

Clarke’s dedication to preserving Roxbury’s history represents a significant contribution to understanding the neighborhood’s complex and vibrant past.