George Thomas Downing

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An abolitionist and activist for African-American civil rights while building a successful career as a restaurateur in New York City; Newport, Rhode Island; and Washington, DC. His father had been an oyster seller and caterer in Philadelphia and New York City, building a business that attracted wealthy white clients. From the 1830s until the end of slavery, Downing was active in the Underground Railroad, using his restaurant as a rest station for refugees on the move.

Born, Dec 30, 1819
Died, July 21, 1903
Related Tours
Black Heritage Trail New York City,He prepared specialties such as pickled oysters and boned turkey for both black and white customers on Broad Street. He followed in the footsteps of his father, Thomas Downing, who ran an Oyster House on Broad Street. He eventually moved to Newport, Rhode Island, where he built the Sea Girt House, a fancy resort hotel.
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