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Ann Arbor 200
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There Went The Neighborhood: The Closing of Jones School

As part of Ann Arbor 200, the Ann Arbor District Library and 7 Cylinders Studio (7CS) have produced a documentary film about the closing of Ann Arbor's Jones School. In 1965, the Board of Education closed the majority-Black school. Ann Arbor joined a nationwide trend of school desegregation during the Civil Rights Era. But for these young students, the loss of a neighborhood school foreshadowed changes to their close-knit community. Gentrification came to Ann Arbor on the heels of desegregation.

In the making of this film, 7CS filmmakers and AADL archivists interviewed over thirty former Jones students and Black community leaders. They shared memories of Jones School and "The Old Neighborhood"—the areas now known as Kerrytown and Water Hill. A filmed walking tour, studio interviews, and historical photos form the core of the film. Run time is approximately 40 minutes.
 

The AADL Archives has many additional materials to explore relating to these topics, including a history of Jones School and dozens of Ann Arbor News articles that appear in the film:

Wheeler Park Shelter and Sign, May 9, 2020 Photographer: Amy Cantu

Wheeler Park Shelter and Sign, May 9, 2020 image
Year:
2020

Wheeler Park Basketball Court Sign, May 9, 2020 Photographer: Amy Cantu

Wheeler Park Basketball Court Sign, May 9, 2020 image
Year:
2020

Wheeler Park, N Fifth Ave Side, May 9, 2020 Photographer: Amy Cantu

Wheeler Park, N Fifth Ave Side, May 9, 2020 image
Year:
2020

Wheeler Park, May 9, 2020 Photographer: Amy Cantu

Wheeler Park, May 9, 2020 image
Year:
2020

Wheeler Park Playground Sign, May 9, 2020 Photographer: Amy Cantu

Wheeler Park Playground Sign, May 9, 2020 image
Year:
2020