A theater for us: The legacy of Madam Walker
“Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.”
Most of us are familiar with Madam C.J. Walker: America’s first self-made female millionaire. Her impressive rags-to-riches story is a staple of Indianapolis’ history. Our fave part? She used her success to uplift others by offering opportunities for thousands of Black women to earn better jobs and wages than was typical of her time.
A mural dedicated to Madam C.J. Walker can be seen in the Indianapolis airport. Image source: Visit Indy
But how much do you know about her philanthropy and the legacy she left through the Madam Walker Theatre? In addition to business, philanthropy, and political activism, she sought to provide marginalized folks with a safe space for social activities. Before she passed away in 1919, she purchased the property where Madam Walker Theatre still stands today.
LEGACY FEST CONCERT: Boyz II Men will headline on June 21st, 2024! Buy your tickets here.
About the Legacy Center
After a 2-year, 15-million-dollar renovation, the Theatre reopened in 2021 as the Madam Walker Legacy Center, a nonprofit that continues to celebrate her success and philanthropic work. Take a 2-minute virtual tour of the renovations here.
Madam Walker Legacy Center offers events, lectures, and live entertainment throughout the year to celebrate diversity and Black artists’ contributions to the community. Some recent events include a free community concert, Symphony on the Avenue, and Discovering Broadway’s “Five Points” Musical Concert.
Image Source: Lori Rackl / Chicago Tribune
The Inside Scoop
We checked in with Sampson Levingston from Through2Eyes Walk and Talk Tours for an insider’s guide to all things Madam Walker and Indiana Avenue. Here are a few of his fave nuggets of knowledge:
“Madam Walker only lived in Indianapolis for six years but left a lasting impact. She realized, ‘When I go to a theater, even as the richest lady in this city, they treat me differently, so let’s build a theater for us.’ That’s what is so cool about her philanthropy.”
- Sampson Levingston
“The theater is not the only historical place to visit associated with Madam Walker. Bethel AME Church, where Madam Walker attended, is also on the National Register of Historic Places and is now part of the Hampton Inn and Suites on the canal. Also, make sure you check out the Madam Walker mural on Indiana Avenue.”
CityMom Tip: Join Sampson’s Walk and Talk tours year-round, there’s no better way to see Indianapolis. Book on his website.
Madam Walker Barbie Debut
As part of the Barbie® Inspiring Women™ Series, you can bring home a collectible doll to celebrate Madam Walker’s inspirational success. The Madam C.J. Walker Barbie even includes a “Madam C.J. Walker Wonderful Hair Grower” accessory kit and a Certificate of Authenticity. The back of the box also includes Madam Walker’s inspiring story, don’t miss an opportunity to gift one to the inspiring woman in your life.
Sources
Madam C.J. Walker | Biography, Company, & Facts | Britannica
Home - Madam Walker Legacy Center
Interview with Sampson Levingston from Through2Eyes Walk and Talk Tours
