Jeffrey D. Nichols Although the 1890 census reported only 588 African Americans living in Utah—a figure that would almost double by 1910—Salt Lake City supported two black newspapers for several years during that time. Julius F. Taylor, born in Virginia but most recently from Fargo, North Dakota, edited and published the Broad Ax, a weekly newspaper, from August 1895 until …
African American Community and Politics, 1890–1910
Ronald G. Coleman Beehive History 19 Much has been written about politics at the turn of the century in Utah, especially the struggle to achieve statehood. Less well known are the political activities of blacks in that era. Two dynamic and colorful leaders—one a Republican and one a Democrat—emerged within the black community in the 1890s and took active roles …
Minstrel Shows Proved Very Popular in 19th Century Utah
Jeffrey D. Nichols History Blazer, May 1995 From the 1840s until the turn of the century, blackface minstrelsy was arguably the most popular form of entertainment in America. Traveling minstrel shows made Salt Lake City, Ogden, and other major Utah towns part of their regular circuit, while local residents formed amateur troupes. Minstrel shows, whether featuring whites in blackface or …