LeDroit Park (Washington, D.C.)

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Developed in the late 19th century, LeDroit Park was an early street car suburb of Washington, DC. Originally intended as a gated community for whites only, it became integrated early on in its history when students from nearby Howard University broke through the gate in protest of discrimination.

By the middle of the 20th century, LeDroit housed many of DC's African-American intellectuals, artists, musicians and authors. The neighborhood went into decline between the 1960's and 1980's but has recently seen a renaissance. The neighborhood is experiencing gentrification but still maintains a high level of racial and economic diversity given its proximity to Howard University, U Street and Shaw.

In March of 2007, the original gate to LeDroit Park was rebuilt at the intersection of Florida Avenue and T Street. Plans call for the restoration of the Howard Theater on T Street between 6th Street and 7th Street. Other redevelopment projects are proposed along 7th Street near the Shaw/Howard University metro station, marking the steady rediscovery of LeDroit and vicinity.