Lexington and the Green Book Historical Marker
Next: Randolph Street United Methodist Church🚶 4 min · approx.
Directions to next stop ↗Homes, guest houses, and more churches filled the surrounding Green Hill and Diamond Hill neighborhoods, the nucleus of the city’s Black community. It was featured in the Negro Motorist Green Book, which certified it as a welcoming and safe place for Black travelers during the Jim Crow era. It was the only Lexington eatery to be included from 1947 to 1957. A walking tour map, available at the Lexington Visitor Center, spotlights the Diamond Hill and Green Hill Communities.
- Where
- 106 E Washington St, Lexington, VA 24450
About
A historical marker titled "Lexington and the Green Book" is located at the Lexington Visitor Center, 106 E. Washington St., highlighting local sites that provided safe lodging and dining for African American travelers during segregation. Key Details About Green Book Sites in Lexington: Location: The marker is situated near the visitor center, recognizing the area's role in the national network of safe travel for Black Americans. Listed Sites: The marker notes the Franklin Tourist Home (operated by Zack and Arleana Franklin on Tucker St.), the Rose Inn , Washington Cafe (both on North Main Street), and the J.M. Wood Tourist Home (Massie Street). Context: These locations served black travelers during the Jim Crow era and the chauffeurs for wealthy employers who were staying in one of the city's hotels. Signage Program: The marker is part of a Virginia Department of Historic Resources (DHR) initiative to commemorate The Negro Motorist Green Book .