History lives in many places.
History lives in our stories. The narratives we pass down from one generation to the next. Stories of heroes, triumphs, tragedies, and movements that we use to teach our children and remind ourselves of the perils of previous mistakes. These stories live in books, blogs, films, and even in the very places we live, work, and walk by every day. History lives in spaces like West Broad. A history we endeavor to preserve, protect, and share.
The 300 block of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd in Savannah was once West Broad St. Originally constructed between 1910 and 1922, this area was once the center of the African-American business and cultural life in the city. Black-owned businesses ranging from movie theaters and grocers to insurance companies and financial institutions lined the street. This collection of businesses included tailors, shoe repair, markets, and Savannah's iconic Thrifty Supply Center hardware store, which resided in the neighborhood for nearly 60 years.
This vibrant community was a center of diversity and the heart of one of Savannah’s thriving neighborhoods. Its wide array of businesses represented a distinctive cultural center for Savannah’s African-American community. But time moves ever onward and the history of progress would lead to seismic changes for the neighborhood.
The “Urban Renewal” works that rose in the mid-twentieth century decimated this vibrant district in Savannah. Demolition destroyed much of the neighborhood including old Union Station to make way for the I-16 flyover. Only a handful of traditional retail blocks remained along West Broad St. and, as time marched on, the diversity of property uses declined. Thrifty Supply Center began consolidating the block, expanding and dissolving the internal property lines. Much of the street frontage was taken over by the growing business and the once-vibrant community vanished in a cloud of boarded-up storefronts, concrete walls, and warehouse space.
But, just as time marches on and landscapes change, history has a way of surviving.
In 2015 Thrifty Supply Center closed its doors and the property was purchased by a new owner. A series of steps were taken to recreate the neighborhood, including restoring previous street addresses that had been consolidated into a single one over the years. Historic signage was restored as well as a revitalization of neglected historic buildings in the neighborhood. Exterior storefronts were restored. New spaces dedicated to both retail and office use were established. A new West Broad was born.
Today West Broad is rebuilding a vibrant, diverse business community. We’re doing this by remembering the history and the stories of this place, this historic community in Savannah. This isn’t just accomplished by understanding the history, but also by taking steps to preserve the historical identity of the space as well as seeking to grow a true community and preserve its historical spirit. History lives in many places…and one of them is here at West Broad.
To learn more about West Broad Savannah, please connect with us through our contact form. For leasing information contact Info@JudgeCommercial.com or call 912.236.1000.