DETAILS: Original photo handbill card for the Hampton Institute Quartet, Fort Monroe, Virginia. Circa 1920. These cards were distributed by band members during their concert tours. Displays a photo of the gospel group along with bigraphic information on the reverse.
BACKGROUND: The was an acclaimed African American a cappella gospel and spirituals ensemble formed at Hampton Institute (now Hampton University). Emerging in the early 20th century, the group was instrumental in popularizing traditional black spirituals across the United States. NThe group toured extensively and was famously known for radio broadcasts and high-profile performances, helping to build widespread cultural appreciation for African American music. The group recorded extensively during the early era of recorded sound. Their historical catalog, which includes traditional spirituals and gospel songs, preserves an important era of American vocal harmony.
AFRICAN AMERICANA
Circa 1850-1980