DC Alley Archives
Claim This Podcastby Briana Thomas
Podcast Overview
<p><strong>DC Alley Archives</strong> is a five-part podcast series from the DC History Center exploring the hidden histories of Washington, DC’s historic alleyways. Hosted by author and journalist Briana Thomas, the series uncovers how these narrow passageways once served as vibrant centers of Black life, community, labor, and culture dating back to the Civil War era.</p> <p>Through conversations with historians, community activists, artists, policymakers, and residents, DC Alley Archives examines the rise and displacement of alley communities, and the modern transformation of these spaces into trendy destinations shaped by gentrification.</p> <p>From hidden history to fair housing, this series asks: What do DC’s alleyways reveal about the city’s past—and its future?</p> <p>Learn more at dchistory.org </p>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
5/26/2026
Reach the team behind DC Alley Archives
Verified contact details for this show aren't on file yet — sign up to get notified when they land.
Recent Episodes
May 26, 2026
Tomorrow's History
This episode closes the DC Alley Archives series with conversations featuring neighborhood commissioner Steven McCarty, restaurant owner Chad Spangler, filmmaker Todd Clark, and researcher Dr. David Salter. They explore the alleyways’ layered history, present-day challenges—like trash, zoning, and rising housing costs—and the cultural role of alleys as community spaces. Guests reflect on preservation, revitalization, and visions for inclusive development that protects both buildings and the people who make these alleys home. Connect with Briana on Instagram @Brianaindc and take a guided history tour with her at blackbroadwaytravel.com . Visit dchistory.org to learn more. Ep. 5 – Washington boy gang in ”Cissel Street,” or ”Cecil Alley” located between 32nd [Wisconsin Ave.] and 33rd [Potomac St.] NW, ca. 1900-1905 (James Borchert Alley Life photograph collection, BO 020A)
May 26, 2026
Thin Line: Revitalization vs. Gentrification in DC's Alleyways
Host Briana Thomas sits down with Gretchen Wharton and Dr. Lopez Matthews Jr. to explore the fine line between revitalization and gentrification in Washington, DC, focusing on historic alleyways, neighborhood change, and the role of archives and preservation. The episode highlights personal histories from Shaw, efforts to name and preserve alley spaces, and practical ways residents can engage in planning to protect community heritage while fostering responsible growth. Connect with Briana on Instagram @Brianaindc and take a guided history tour with her at blackbroadwaytravel.com . Visit dchistory.org to learn more. Ep. 4 – James Borchert Alley Life photograph collection, BO 031
May 26, 2026
Where Did Everyone Go? Displacement, Race, and DC’s Alleyways
Host Briana Thomas speaks with Bryan Green (National Association of Realtors) and Dr. Bi’Anncha Andrews about the history and impact of alleyway communities in Washington, DC, exploring how real estate policy, redlining, racial covenants, and urban renewal drove displacement and shaped neighborhood change. The episode highlights the loss of cultural value and generational wealth, the role of Black women in resistance and advocacy, and current challenges and policy ideas for building inclusive, equitable housing while preserving community networks. Connect with Briana on Instagram @Brianaindc and take a guided history tour with her at blackbroadwaytravel.com . Visit dchistory.org to learn more. Ep. 3 – London Court (later Hopkins Court) alley dwelling, December 18, 1935 (General Photograph Collection, CHS 06842)
5 total episodes available
Similar Podcasts
Discover related shows you might enjoy
Deep-dive analytics for DC Alley Archives
Frequently asked questions
Have a different question and can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out to our support team by sending us an email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
- What is DC Alley Archives?
<p><strong>DC Alley Archives</strong> is a five-part podcast series from the DC History Center exploring the hidden histories of Washington, DC’s historic alleyways. Hosted by author and journalist Briana Thomas, the series uncovers how these narrow passageways once served as vibrant centers of Black life, community, labor, and culture dating back to the Civil War era.</p> <p>Through conversations with historians, community activists, artists, policymakers, and residents, DC Alley Archives examines the rise and displacement of alley communities, and the modern transformation of these spaces into trendy destinations shaped by gentrification.</p> <p>From hidden history to fair housing, this series asks: What do DC’s alleyways reveal about the city’s past—and its future?</p> <p>Learn more at dchistory.org </p> - How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Information about guest appearances is not available.
Legal Disclaimer
Pod Engine is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected with any of the podcasts displayed on this platform. We operate independently as a podcast discovery and analytics service.
All podcast artwork, thumbnails, and content displayed on this page are the property of their respective owners and are protected by applicable copyright laws. This includes, but is not limited to, podcast cover art, episode artwork, show descriptions, episode titles, transcripts, audio snippets, and any other content originating from the podcast creators or their licensors.
We display this content under fair use principles and/or implied license for the purpose of podcast discovery, information, and commentary. We make no claim of ownership over any podcast content, artwork, or related materials shown on this platform. All trademarks, service marks, and trade names are the property of their respective owners.
While we strive to ensure all content usage is properly authorized, if you are a rights holder and believe your content is being used inappropriately or without proper authorization, please contact us immediately at hey@podengine.ai for prompt review and appropriate action, which may include content removal or proper attribution.
By accessing and using this platform, you acknowledge and agree to respect all applicable copyright laws and intellectual property rights of content owners. Any unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or commercial use of the content displayed on this platform is strictly prohibited.