"Examines the people and institutions that shaped Kansas City's Black communities from the end of the Civil War until the outbreak of World War II, blending rich historical research with first-person accounts that allow participants in this historical drama to tell their own stories of struggle and accomplishment"--Provided by publisher.

The souls of Black folk -- The world of work -- Professionals, businesspeople, and others -- Institutions of uplift -- School, church, and health : institutions of salvation -- Play : not without laughter -- Housing -- The challenges of the Great Depression, 1930-1939 -- Coda : "The weary blues" -- Appendix A. G. A. Gregg's description of the Tulsa Race Riot, May 30\-June 2, 1921 -- Appendix B. Graduates of the first Janitor Training School conducted by the Kansas City Urban League.