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Preserving the Legacy of Williamsburg’s Triangle Block

Community members celebrating the heritage of the Triangle Block in Williamsburg.

News Summary

Williamsburg’s Triangle Block, a historic Black business district, is being revitalized through community-led efforts. Activists are documenting its rich history, underscoring the importance of preserving this cultural landmark. Plans include a documentary highlighting personal stories of those impacted by past urban redevelopment while discussions for future development aim to balance growth and community needs.

Williamsburg, Virginia is witnessing a renewed focus on the historic Triangle Block, a once-thriving Black business and residential district that played a crucial role in the local community from the 1930s to the 1970s. Efforts to document and preserve the area’s legacy are being spearheaded by local activists and community organizations with the aim of highlighting the significance of this cultural landmark.

The Triangle Block is located in the area defined by Armistead Avenue and Scotland and Prince George streets in downtown Williamsburg. Historically, the district was home to a dynamic assortment of establishments, including restaurants, grocery stores, a blacksmith shop, and a hospital led by Dr. James B. Blayton, the first Black doctor in Williamsburg. This vibrant community has been recognized for its family-oriented atmosphere and local entrepreneurship.

However, the circumstances surrounding the Triangle Block changed dramatically over the years. A report published in the 1950s labeled the area’s housing as “substandard,” leading to a series of urban redevelopment plans that ultimately resulted in the displacement of many residents and businesses. Following the city’s establishment of the Williamsburg Redevelopment and Housing Authority in 1969, significant portions of the Triangle Block were destroyed, including notable establishments such as the Triangle Restaurant, also known as the Paradise Café. By the 1970s, urban renewal policies had decimated many of the businesses that made up the vibrant district, displacing families and erasing crucial aspects of its cultural identity.

In response to this displacement, Jacqueline Bridgeforth-Williams, founder of The Village Initiative, is producing a documentary titled “Displaced from the Birthplace of America.” This project aims to capture personal stories and the community’s historical narrative from descendants impacted by the dislocation in hopes of preserving and honoring the Triangle Block’s legacy. The documentary will explore not only the historical significance of the area but also the rich fabric of experiences shared by families and businesses that thrived there.

The Triangle’s history can be traced back to the 1890s when Samuel T. Harris, a prominent Black merchant, acquired land in the neighborhood. Under the ownership of individuals such as William Henry Webb Sr. and his wife Martha, the district grew to support numerous local enterprises. In addition to the Triangle Restaurant, Webb’s Grocery was a mainstay, as was the blacksmith shop operated by Samuel K. Harris. The medical facility run by Dr. J. Blaine Blayton also contributed significantly to community well-being.

The local community actively resisted redevelopment plans out of concern for lost economic opportunities and the erasure of cultural landmarks. Their resilience is evident in contemporary efforts aimed at honoring the Triangle’s history. The establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee in 2021 and the introduction of an African American Heritage Trail is indicative of the community’s commitment to acknowledging and preserving the narratives of Black residents in Williamsburg. Plans for a scholarship program for descendants of Black ancestors from Williamsburg prior to 1964 were also introduced in 2024 to further highlight the importance of the district’s historical context.

Despite the difficult past, discussions about the future of the Triangle Block are circulating, with proposals for developing an entertainment district that seeks to balance growth with equitable opportunities for the community. Upcoming documentary release events are slated for 2026, with preview activities designed to engage community members and raise awareness. Scheduled events include a trailer preview and panel discussion at the Williamsburg Public Library, as well as guided tours of the historical area featuring descendants who will share their personal stories.

The ongoing focus on the Triangle Block serves as a crucial reminder of the rich history and cultural contributions of the Black community in Williamsburg, emphasizing the need for preservation and recognition in urban development efforts going forward.