Black History Month In Germantown

Taken in 1924, this is a photo of the W. Rittenhouse YMCA football team.  At this period in Germantown’s history there were 4 YMCA’s in the area.  Black men, black women, white men, and white women all had separate facilities.

Notes identify three individuals in the second row: William James Byrd Sr., third the right, Joseph Paige (a community photographer), second from the left, and Wilbur (Burt) Smith (a mailman), first on the right.

Photograph taken by Dan E. Paul and shared courtesy of the Germantown Historical Society.  For more great images and local history visit the Germantown Historical Society Library open Tues. 9a-1p and Thurs. 1p-5p. Sundays by Appointment.