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African American History in Washington DC: Tour of the Shaw and LeDroit Park Neighborhoods
Item 11 of 15
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History was founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1915. Woodson and ASALH are the originators of what is now known as Black History Month. The goal of this organization was and still is to research and provide information about the history and accomplishments of the African American community. It is headquartered in Washington DC but has branches all over the world. ASALH remains one of the most important organizations for the preservation and study of African American history.

The logo of the ASALH logo with a picture of its founder, Dr. Woodson.

The logo of the ASALH logo with a picture of its founder, Dr. Woodson.

The home of Dr. Carter G. Woodson.

The home of Dr. Carter G. Woodson.
The founder of the ASALH, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, is often called the father of Black history. His efforts in creating the ASALH were some of the most effective in the world in spreading the knowledge and teaching of African American history. To this day, the organization continues to do the work that Dr. Woodson set out to do. This organization believes that it is not only for the African American community but for all humanity to learn and appreciate African American history (Association for the Study).

Today, ASALH is the home of many research and interpretation endeavors of African American history. Along with this, it also hosts many celebrations and informational events. Among many events, the ASALH hosts an essay contest for students, sets the theme each year for Black History Month, and holds luncheons and speaker events. For the ASALH, the most important thing is to spread history internationally to all people (Association for the Study).

The ASALH was founded on 525 Bryant Street in Washington DC and ASALH was housed at Howard University in recent years. The organization is in flux following the decision to abandon self-publication of the Journal of African American History and the organizational website lists an office building on Rhode Island as their physical address while the mailing address remains on the Howard Campus. 
"Association for the Study of African American Life and History," accessed October 1, 2014, http://asalh.org/index.html.