F. W. Woolworth Co. Building/ International Civil Rights Center & Museum, 132 South Elm Street

Constructed in 1929, this structure was built speculatively and later became the city branch of the national five-and-dime retailer F.W. Woolworth Co. Architect Charles C. Hartmann (Jefferson Standard Building) combined classical Greek elements with Art Deco motifs including bronze urns and acroteria,. The majority of the façade is of Indiana Limestone articulated in highly stylized forms including fluted pilasters, frieze panels, medallions, and draping. In 1960, the site was the scene of the Sit-in Movement to dismantle Jim Crow Era laws against African American citizens. In recognition of that historic occasion, this internationally distinguished site has been extensively reprogrammed for use as the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. Open to the public.

Photo Credit: Carol W. Martin/Greensboro History Museum Collection
This image is part of the Greensboro History Museum collections, and the copyright is owned by the family of the photographer.

Style: Neoclassical/ Art Deco. Listed to the National Register of Historic Places in June 1982. Local Landmark Property since November 2010. Greensboro Preservation Award 2011.