Existing comment:
A Self-Reliant People
Greater Deanwood Heritage Trail
9 Shopping on Sheriff
Sheltered from the overt bigotry many African Americans experienced when venturing downtown, Deanwood shoppers of the 1950s patronized Sheriff Road's mostly African American businesses, including Mouse Gordon's tailor shop, Tip Top Grocery, Deanwood Pool Hall, Fat's Barber Shop, 4501 Soda Bar and Grill, a pharmacy, printer, and bakery.
Among the businessmen was Earl E. King, Sr., who started selling ice and coal from his home near Sheriff Road and 45th Place in 1925. King and his family also delivered ice for home iceboxes. In the late 1950s, he installed the only 14-home, self service ice machine in Northeast, still visible behind 4501 Sheriff Road. He also offered limousine service.
Al and Ida Mendelson were among the Jewish proprietors who ran businesses here. In the 1940s they lived above their Certified Food Market at 4400 Sheriff, where cash-strapped customers could simply sign "the book" and settle accounts later. Their son Maury developed "big burger" patties and sandwich steaks for sale to area restaurants. The Mendelsons sold the grocery in 1948 to focus on Murry's Steaks, offering wholesale frozen meat products. In its third generation, the business continues as Murry's family of Fine Foods, retailing in Washington and the Mid-Atlantic.
Another multi-generation business began when Henry Parker opened Suburban Market and a filling station at 49th Place and Grant Street in 1944. Some 30 years later the marked moved to 4600 Sheriff Road. After Parker's death, his son Irving ran the market, while son Reginald opened a barber shop across the street. The Parkers supported neighborhood activities, including the Roper Recreation Center's baseball team. |