Perserving the Past, Celebrating the Legacy

Atlantic City’s Black history is a story of resilience, innovation, and cultural brilliance that has shaped the city’s identity. Since its founding in 1854, Atlantic City has been a premier tourist destination, and the growth of the African American community during and after the Great Migration played a pivotal role in its rise as a vacation hotspot from the 1880s to the 1940s. The “Northside” flourished as a hub for Black-owned businesses, anchored by vibrant bars, restaurants, and the iconic music scene on Kentucky Avenue. The city’s history is filled with groundbreaking achievements, like Art Dorrington becoming the first African American hockey player to sign an NHL contract and later founding a program to teach hockey to underserved youth. It’s also the site of historic moments, such as Fannie Lou Hamer’s powerful speech during the 1964 Democratic National Convention at Boardwalk Hall, where she declared, "I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired." Even the sandy shores hold cultural significance. Missouri Avenue Beach, affectionately known as Chicken Bone Beach, was a haven for African Americans during segregation, hosting legendary performers like the Mills Brothers and Louis Jordan. Today, it stands as a historic landmark, symbolizing the rich cultural contributions of Atlantic City’s Black community. Through efforts to preserve this history and celebrate its enduring legacy, Atlantic City honors the past while inspiring future generations. From trailblazing achievements to cultural landmarks, the story of Black history in Atlantic City continues to thrive.