Beaver Slide, Former African American settlement in Southwest Atlanta, United States
Beaver Slide was an African American settlement in Southwest Atlanta that extended across about 18 acres near Atlanta University. The community consisted of roughly 200 homes along Lawshe, Elm, and Dora Streets.
In 1882, the Atlanta City Council ordered the burning of the settlement's buildings following a smallpox outbreak that threatened public health. This drastic action led to the destruction of the community.
The settlement inspired the creation of Beaver Slide Rag, a musical composition by Peg Leg Howell And His Gang in 1927. This piece reflects the place's importance in African American musical history.
The site was transformed into University Homes in 1937, a housing development with 675 family units for African American residents. This project existed until its demolition between 2008 and 2009.
The name originated when Police Chief James Beavers lost his balance while observing the neighborhood from a hillside and slid down into the community. This unusual incident has shaped the place's story ever since.
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