The Dunbar Hotel was built in 1928 and was the center of a vibrant Central Avenue Los Angeles African American community in the 1930’s and 40’s. Guests through the years included W.E.B. DuBois and Thurgood Marshall. The hotel deteriorated with integration in the 1950’s. The neighborhood which was once central to the African-American community is now predominantly Hispanic. The hotel has been converted for use as apartments and remains in its original location.

By Michael Harris

If you enjoy reading these vignettes each month, you may want to check out my father-in-law’s book, Westside Stories. It’s a memoir/history of growing up on the Westside of Los Angeles in the 1940s and 1950s with great photos, anecdotes and stories. Perfect for the history buff/enthusiast in your family! It’s available for purchase on Amazon.