Queen City: a forgotten legacy of Black self-sufficiency
Discover the remarkable story of Queen City, a vibrant Black community in Arlington, Virginia, that thrived with independence and spirit before its displacement for the Pentagon. This page honors its memory and the enduring legacy of its people.
The rise of a resilient community
Queen City emerged as a testament to resilience and independence, founded by families from Freedman's Village after its clearing in the late 1800s. This historic Black community in Arlington, Virginia, quickly established itself as a self-sufficient hub. At its peak, Queen City boasted a population of 900 people, with residents owning their homes and fostering a thriving ecosystem of small businesses, churches, and schools. It stands as a powerful example of Black communal strength and independence in the South after Reconstruction and before World War II.
Displacement for the Pentagon
The prosperity and self-sufficiency of Queen City faced an insurmountable challenge during World War II. In the early 1940s, the United States government identified the land occupied by Queen City as essential for the construction of the Pentagon and a surrounding highway system. Through eminent domain, the community was cleared between 1941 and 1942, leading to the displacement of its residents and the erasure of a vibrant neighborhood. This dramatic event underscores the significant sacrifices made by communities for national projects.
Remembering Queen City's legacy
Although Queen City no longer physically exists, its memory and legacy are preserved through dedicated memorial efforts and local history projects in Arlington, Virginia. It remains a crucial historical landmark, serving as a powerful reminder of Black independence and community development in the South. The story of Queen City inspires us to reflect on the importance of self-sufficiency and the building of strong, supportive communities within the Black American experience. We hope this history encourages a renewed focus on developing and sustaining our own businesses and communities.