The Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ Historic Preservation Division (HPD) has released a new historic context statement titled On the Circuit: The Chitlin’ Circuit and Segregated Black Entertainment in Jim Crow Georgia. The report is intended to serve as a reference for developing a future Chitlin’ Circuit Heritage Trail in Georgia, which aims to educate the public about African American entertainment during the era of segregation in the South.
The first phase of this project involved research and documentation of the Chitlin’ Circuit, including site visits and case studies that could become destinations on the proposed heritage trail. This work resulted in the publication of On the Circuit. Funding for this year-long project was provided by a grant from the Fox Theatre through its Fox Gives program.
Mary W. Joseph, HPD Community Outreach Coordinator, collaborated with New South Associates to produce the report. The research covers several key topics, such as defining what constitutes the Chitlin’ Circuit, exploring its origins both nationally and regionally, and identifying significant people and places related to its history and preservation.
A selection of sites associated with the circuit across Georgia were chosen as case studies for potential inclusion on the heritage trail. These sites may also serve as models for adding more locations as the trail expands.
“On the Circuit is a groundbreaking resource to recognize the rich musical heritage and resilience in Georgia,” said Jennifer Flood, DCA’s Historic Preservation Division Director. “We look forward to the report’s impact in supporting a heritage trail to encourage visitors to these important sites.”
The report is available publicly along with other historic context statements for use in various history and preservation projects. These resources help individuals and professionals identify and understand their properties within broader historical themes.
On the Circuit can be accessed at dca.georgia.gov, where additional information about HPD programs is also available.
