The inauguration of the Erie Canal in 1825 made New York the country’s most important port city along global trade routes. Work on the canal was left incomplete, but its start formed what would become 125th Street.
Growth of Black Harlem
Strike protesting high rent in Harlem, September 1919 (International Film Service. 1919
Stagnant real-estate values and the lack of financial resources led to stunted commercial growth, and little economic development in Harlem. The Great Depression brought economic challenges to Harlem. Economic decline and a rise in crime and drug use rose the area. Yet 125 th Street still remained to be the identity of African American New Yorkers, representing their accomplishments and challenges.
The 1940 broadside flyer in the New-York Historical Society’s collections stated, “125th Street, Harlem’s principal shopping center, ranks with the best retail streets in the city.”
Shop in 125th St. Stores with Confidence! Broadside, SY1941 no. 75. Interior. Digital item 86022d. New-York Historical Society
Controversies relating to 125th Street still existed. Despite all these events, complaints about poor treatment of local customers by shop proprietors continued. As the storefronts closed and went into decline, debate began about what new stores would come in to a revitalized retail district.
