Before the apps, people used newspapers to find love
Feb 14, 2024
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Reporter Nichole Hill joins the hosts to explore the personals section of a Black newspaper from 1937, discovering love stories and dating advice. They discuss the historical significance of these newspapers and the desires and expectations of Black people seeking love. They also reflect on the beauty of everyday life after slavery and discuss their experiences with a dating app.
Black individuals in the late 1930s sought companionship through personals ads, reflecting the challenges and hopes of finding love in a changing society.
The Black newspapers of the past provided insight into changing dating norms and the introduction of companionate love, showcasing the richness and diversity of everyday Black life beyond the struggle for civil rights.
Deep dives
Black Love Stories in Archival Newspapers
Nicole Hill, a storyteller, explores the treasure trove of archival Black newspapers from the 1890s. These papers were filled with personal ads from Black individuals searching for love. The papers not only covered national and international news but also published gossip, love poems, and other lighthearted content. The papers provided insight into Black love in the past and how it has evolved, revealing changing dating norms and the introduction of companionate love.
Searching for Love in 1937
The podcast hosts discuss the Lonesome Hearts column in The Washington Afro-American newspaper from 1937, which was akin to the dating apps of that time. They highlight ads written by men and women expressing their desire for companionship. Some writers were specific about their preferences and desired traits in potential partners, while others sought pen pals or expressed loneliness. The ads reflected the challenges and hopes of Black individuals seeking love in the context of a changing society.
Exploring Black Love in Everyday Life
The podcast episode delves into everyday Black life in the late 1930s. It mentions the introduction of television, popular figures like Shirley Temple, and influential books and music of that time. The episode highlights the vibrant social and cultural scenes in cities like Washington, D.C., with their black-owned businesses, universities, and entertainment venues. Black individuals sought common interests and compatibility in potential partners, bonding over shared passions such as music, movies, literature, and church.
Imagining Black Life Beyond Oppression
The episode emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the aspirations and dreams of Black individuals following their emancipation. It discusses how the generation born free in America was envisioning a future beyond the limitations imposed by slavery. These individuals explored different professions, started businesses, and traveled the world. They embraced modern dating concepts, seeking love based on personal connection and companionship rather than financial or societal obligations. The episode underscores the significance of recognizing the richness and diversity of everyday Black life beyond the struggle for civil rights.
To celebrate the history of Black romance, Gene and Parker are joined by reporter Nichole Hill to explore the 1937 equivalent of dating apps — the personals section of one of D.C.'s Black newspapers. Parker attempts to match with a Depression-era bachelor, and along the way we learn about what love meant two generations removed from slavery.